POLICE are investigating a link between three armed robberies that were carried out within two days of each other.

Detectives in Darlington believe the same two men could be responsible for the offences last week.

On Friday, the BP garage, in Haughton Road, was held up by two robbers, one brandishing a crow bar. They stole a quantity of cash and escaped in a stolen red vehicle that was later found abandoned.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which happened at about 8pm, to come forward.

The men are both aged about 20. One was about 5ft 8in, of average build with a thin, gaunt face and a possible black eye.

He had stubble on his top lip and chin and wore a baseball cap and cream jacket.

The second man was about 5ft 9in, of average build, with a thin face and short, black hair.

He wore a white T-shirt with grey stripes and light coloured shorts.

Earlier in the day, the Bell's Store, on Red Hall estate, was targeted by two robbers with a knife who stole cash.

The previous evening, two female workers in their early 20s were confronted by two men, one of whom had a knife, at Ken Warne's supermarket, in Cleveland Terrace.

Detective Sergeant Dave Wilkes said: "We believe the incidents are linked and would like anyone who saw what happened, or who has any information, to contact us."

Darlington CID can be contacted on (01325) 742111, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.