Wiltshire armed robberies

Two men have been arrested in connection with robberies at a book makers and a bank in Wiltshire.

The first incident happened on Wednesday 23rd February at the branch of William Hill in Newlands, Corsham.

A man wearing a balaclava and armed with what appeared to be a small handgun handed staff a yellow plastic bag and instructed them to empty the till before leaving a short time later. Another man was seen standing in the doorway of the shop before they both left the scene.

The second robbery took place on Wednesday 9th March. Shortly after 2:30pm two men entered the branch of Cheltenham & Gloucester bank in Devizes where they handed over a bag and asked the cashier to fill it with money before showing her what is described as a small black handgun. They then walked out of the bank with a substantial amount of cash.

On Friday 25th March 2011, a 22 year old man from Melksham and an 18 year old man from Chippenham were arrested on suspicion of robbery in connection with both incidents. Following interview they were both released on police bail pending further enquiries. An imitation firearm has been recovered during searches of properties made following the arrests.

Detective Sergeant Mark Kent said:

'We have had a good response following our appeal through the media and I would like to thank all those who have assisted us so far.

'These arrests came as a direct result of information received from vigilant members of the public. Officers responded to their call and located two men. Following further enquiries the men were arrested in connection with the robberies.

'Detectives are continuing to follow up on information as the investigation continues. However, we believe there are others who may have vital information but have not yet come forward and I'm continuing to appeal to those people to get in touch. You may think your piece of information is not significant but let us be the judge of that.'

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 0845 408 7000. Alternatively people can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously if they wish.