Armed robberies in Middlesbrough 'could be linked'
Two armed robberies in the Middlesbrough area on Monday night could be linked, police believe.
Two men, armed with a hammer and an unknown implement, threatened staff at the One Stop Shop in North Ormesby then left with cash trays.
Two hours later, the Sainsbury's store in Netherfields was similarly targeted by two men matching the same description.
In both cases they were also carrying a distinctive blue and white hold-all.
The first robbery took place at about 2030 BST, and the second was reported to police at 2255 BST.
Anyone with information about either offence is asked to contact Cleveland Police.