ROBBERS burst into a public house and escaped with about £1,000 in cash after threatening staff and customers with a handgun and machete.

The raiders struck as the Cross Keys pub in St John's Road, Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells, was closing at about 11.30pm on Saturday.

Although they were stunned, the landlord and two friends set off to try to trace the offenders. A suspect was later detained and arrested by police. No one was hurt in the incident.

Det Sgt Lesley Mitchell, of West Kent CID, said the man detained was in his 30s and lives in South London. A second suspect is still being sought and Det Sgt Mitchell said: "Anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have seen anything suspicious is asked to contact us on 01732 370732."

Information can also be passed via the Crimestoppers linkline on 0800 555111. Callers do not have to leave their name.