DETECTIVES have released CCTV images following two robberies at a bank and a building society the high street at Chatham.

The most recent incident occurred at around 5pm on Tuesday. A man entered a branch of Lloyds TSB and demanded money from the cashier. He fled with an undisclosed sum of cash.

The man is described as being a white male, around 6ft tall with a local accent. He was wearing a fluorescent padded jacket, dark trousers and a dark woollen hat.

It is reported that the man was seen in the high street prior to the robbery. After the offence it is thought that he made off through the car park at the back of Debenhams and then into Clover Street and New Road where he removed his jacket to reveal a grey coloured top.

Police are not ruling out the possibility that the crime is linked with a similar robbery that took place at the Nationwide building society in High Street, Chatham, between 4.55pm and 5pm on Saturday, November 23.

Det Insp John Coull, who is leading the enquiry, said: "I would ask anyone who may recognise the man in the CCTV to get in contact with police so that we can speak to him about the robberies.

"I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have seen or located the fluorescent jacket after it had been discarded. All calls will be treated in the strictest confidence and thoroughly investigated."

If anyone recognises the description of the man or can help officers with this investigation, please contact Kent Police in Medway on 01622 690690 or Kent CrimeStoppers, free and in confidence on 0800 555111.