A knifeman stole cash and threatened workers at shops during two raids.

The teenager threatened staff at knifepoint in Eastwood Convenience Store, in Rayleigh Road, at around 7.30pm before carrying out a robbery in Cambridge News, in Eastwood Road North, just before 8pm, yesterday.

The suspect left the scene with cash.

Officers have released an image of a man wanted in connection with the incidents.

Detective Constable Glen Crosby, of Southend CID, said: “We were quickly alerted about these robberies and carried out a search, however, we were unable to locate the suspect.

“Fortunately no one was injured but the victims were left shaken by their ordeals.

“We would like to locate the person shown pictured here in our CCTV. "We understand there were people waiting outside and we are trying to establish whether they are witnesses or suspects.

“We would urge anyone with information to call Southend CID on 101 quoting incidents 1019 and 1056 of 14/01.”