A MAN from Stroud has been arrested in connection with a series of robberies including one at Chalford Village Shop.

The 35-year-old from Stroud was arrested in the early hours of this morning, Monday, September 25, on suspicion of robbery.

Three offences took place, the first was around 6pm on Wednesday at Chesterton Stores on Countess Lilias Road in Cirencester, the second was around midday on Friday at Chalford Village Shop in Tankards Spring, High Street, Chalford, and the third robbery was shortly after 3.20pm on Saturday at Beeches Stores on Upper Churnside, Cirencester.

Police were called in Chalford on Friday to reports that a man with an axe had robbed the village shop.

The police is appealing for witnesses including sightings of a small red van near to the scene around the times of the robberies.

Crime Team Detective Inspector Wayne Usher said: "I would like to reassure the public that we have acted swiftly to make an arrest in connection with these incidents.

"Officers have worked with local businesses to provide support and reassurance and we have also increased patrols in the area.

"We are still appealing for witnesses or anyone in the local area where the incidents took place who might have private CCTV which could help our investigation to contact us."

Anyone with information should call Gloucestershire police on 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.police.uk quoting incident number 166 of September 22.

You can also give information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.