A man is being held by police after axemen raided two post offices within the space of an hour.

Police say two armed robbers struck first at Bean Post Office in Southfleet Road, at 11.15am on Tuesday, threatening staff with axes and demanding cash before escaping in a red Volkswagen Golf.

Just over half an hour later at 11.48am police were called to reports of a robbery at a post office in Forest Road, Erith - where two axemen again threatened staff and demanded money.

The investigation is now being led by the Metropolitan Police's South East Command Unit, and officers say a quantity of cash was taken in both offences.

No one was injured during either incident.

A 31-year-old man was arrested shortly after the second incident on suspicion of robbery, and was taken to a south London police station where he remains in custody.

Officers continue to seek outstanding suspects and anyone who has information concerning these incidents should call South East Command Unit quoting 2712/5FEB or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.