Appeal after robberies at Home Bargains and Co-op in Colchester

On both occasions a man placed goods in a bag and made to leave the store without paying.

When challenged by staff, he threatened them armed with either a small knife or a glass bottle.

The first incident took place at about 6.45pm on Saturday, March 13 at Home Bargains, Petrolea Close.

The incident at Home Bargains, Petrolea Close

The second took place five days later on Thursday, March 18 at Co-op, The Square, Iceni Way.

Police have described the man is question as a white man, mid-late 20s, 5ft 6ins to 5ft 9ins of slim to medium build.

He was wearing a mask but believed to be clean shaven, while his light brown hair was cropped or shaved at the sides, with a distinctive top-knot at the back of the head.

He wore dark-coloured casual clothing both times and carried a black gym bag the first time to remove goods. Police would now like to speak to him in connection with their investigation.

If you recognise him, call 101 quoting the following crime references:

Home Bargains, Petrolea Close - crime reference 42/44392/21).

Co-op, The Square, Iceni Way (crime reference 42/48127/21).