A man has been charged with attempting to rob a bank and possessing a weapon after armed police swooped on Canterbury city centre.

Shaun O'Donoghue, of Speldhurst Close, Ashford, was arrested at the NatWest bank in The Parade after dozens of officers and a dog unit were called at 3.40pm yesterday.

The 57-year-old was today charged with attempted robbery, possession of an imitation firearm with intent to commit and indictable offence, and possession of a weapon.

O'Donoghue was remanded in custody until tomorrow, when he will appear at Canterbury Magistrates' Court.

Kent Police said officers recovered an imitation firearm and knife at the scene.