DETECTIVES think two robberies were carried out by the same man armed with a black gun.

The robberies have taken place in the same Kent town at about same time on consecutive nights.

The first was on Sunday between 9.50pm and 10.10pm on a footpath that runs parallel to Newtown Road and Turner Close in Ashford.

An 18-year-old man was walking along the path and stood aside to allow a stranger to pass him.

The man was holding what is thought to have been a gun, described as black and rusting. He demanded that the teenager hand over his wallet and mobile phone, which he did.

The offender then walked off in the direction of Turner Close.

The robber has been described as thinly built, wearing a navy or black hooded top with material covering his face. He had what appeared to be black bin bags covering his clothing.

The following night at around 9.50pm, a 17-year-old youth was sitting on a bench in the recreation ground in Church Road with three others.

The group was approached by a man who produced what is believed to have been a black gun and demanded his mobile phone.

He took the phone and then made off towards Osborne Road.

The man is described as about 5ft 10in tall, slim build, wearing a grey hooded jumper with the hood up, a light grey balaclava, blue jeans and white trainers.

Det Sgt Rebecca Goddard said: "We believe the incidents may be linked, and urge the public to report any suspicious persons they may see in the vicinity of Church Road, Newtown Road, Turner Close, Osborne Road and the Wilesborough Green area or the recreation ground.

"It is important that people take note of their surroundings and are aware of who is around them if they use their mobile phones in public.

"On one occasion a man was targeted as he walked down the street whilst on his phone, and the second incident took place at a play park in Willesborough.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Goddard at South Kent police on 01233 896285. Alternatively call Crimestoppers Hotline on 00800 555111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free, you do not need to give your name and you may be eligible for a reward.

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