POLICE investigating a robbery at a town centre bank today (Wednesday April 23) arrested a man suspected of carrying out the raid.

Officers investigating the daytime robbery at Lloyds TSB in Stanley, County Durham, made the arrest in a morning raid at an address in Gateshead.

A 22-year-old year old man, from New Kyo, near Stanley, who was detained on suspicion of robbery, is in custody at Durham City Police Station where he is being questioned by detectives.

It follows the raid, reported to police, shortly before 2pm yesterday (Tuesday April 22).

The suspect claimed to be in possession of a firearm and left the Front Street premises with what police described as, “a substantial amount of money.”

He was last seen making off, amid a shroud of mist engulfing the area, towards the town centre bus station.

A 21-year-old local man was arrested later yesterday on suspicion of robbery, but he was subsequently released with no further action to be taken.

Investigators issued a description of a dark haired man, aged approximately 18 to 25, who they were keen to trace in connection with the raid.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Gavin Heckles said: “I would like to thank each and every person who came forward with information to assist this inquiry following our appeal last night.

“We’ve been overwhelmed with information and are appreciative of the support.”

Anyone with further information about the raid is asked to contact the Durham force non-emergency line, on 101, of Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555111.