Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for information following two robberies at convenience stores in Frome.

The first incident happened on the evening of 6th February, shortly after 6 p.m. in Culverhill. A man entered the convenience store and took a quantity of cash after threatening staff with what was described as a knife.

The following morning, there was another incident in Rodden Road at around 9.30 a.m., when a man entered a convenience store and demanded cash, before leaving empty-handed. He had with him what is believed to be an imitation firearm.

There were concerns that armed officers responded to the robbery. They are part of the response team that will attend any on-going incidents in the first instance, and help to provide reassurance to the local community, especially if there is a report that the offender had a weapon of some sort. Police are continuing to provide high-profile patrols in the area.

Initial investigation suggests that the two robbery incidents are not thought to be linked. Anyone able to help should contact: 101, quoting reference: 52190 27453 (Rodden Road incident) and 52190 27047 (Culverhill incident).