DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after an armed robbery at a Kent bank.

A man carrying a handgun stole a small amount of cash from the Co-operative Bank in Hythe Street, Dartford, after walking into the building shortly after midday on Friday.

The robber is described as white, in his late 20s, stocky, with a prominent nose. He was wearing a beige anorak with a hood and dark trousers.

It is believed he escaped on foot and may have been carrying an orange plastic bag. No-one was hurt during the incident.

Startled passers-by saw four police cars outside the premises and two armed officers were seen leaving the scene.

Linda Button, manager of the neighbouring Wool Shop, said: "I first heard the sirens outside but you hear them going past so often you get used to it. But it was then I saw the police out there and it made me realise something had happened."

Anyone with any information is urged to call Kent Police on 01622 690690 or contact Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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