A SPATE of robberies around Tottenham Lock has triggered a warning from police for residents to be on their guard.

Haringey police issued the warning yesterday after four robberies and attempted robberies, believed to be linked, in and around the Ferry Lane area.

They have also launched an appeal for information.

The first attack tool place in Ferry Lane on June 18, at 9.30pm.

A 42-year-old man was walking his bicycle when he was approached by a group of youths who snatched his bike before running off.

No violence or threats of violence were used.

On July 12 at 10.10pm a 36-year-old man who had been cycling along the Tottenham Lock tow path was knocked off his bicycle and dragged to the ground.

He was then hit by his attacker, causing facial bruising, while a second man arrived, also on a bicycle, and demanded money.

The pair made off with the victim's bike and phone.

Three days later in Canal Path, at 8pm, a 36-year-old man was cycling when he tried to pass a group of men on the path, when he was hit by a long piece of wood, causing him to fall from the bike.

The gang surrounded him and unleashed a frenzy of punches and kicks.

He tried to fend them off but fell into the river with his bike.

The suspects ran off empty handed.

But in the same road on July 28 at 5.10pm, a 59-year-old man was cycling along the canal path towards a group of men standing on the path.

One of the men, whose face was obscured by a scarf, blocked his path and pulled out a knife as he demanded cash.

The victim refused and was stabbed in his upper leg.

He tried to escape but was caught by a group of men who took his bike.

The victim was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment and was released later that day.

Detective Constable Tina Young, of Haringey’s robbery squad, said: "We are asking people to remain vigilant. We are doing everything we can to find those responsible for these incidents.

"Haringey Q-Cars and the local Safer Neighbourhoods team are conducting extra foot and cycle and patrols as well as plain clothed patrols. If you see anyone suspicious please do contact police."

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Young on 020 8345 0885 or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 To make an emergency phone call to police dial 999