A CROSS-BORDER manhunt has been launched by police following a series of armed robberies.

Businesses and shop owners in Lyme Regis have been put on alert amid fears the town may be hit next.

Police have released two CCTV images, pictured, of a man they want to speak to in relation to two incidents that happened over the border in Axminster, Devon, on December 24 and 29.

The first incident happened on Christmas Eve at the Prospect Garage petrol station in Lyme Road.

A man, wearing a scarf over his face, entered the store at about 6pm and threatened staff with a knife, before making off with a quantity of cash. The second incident happened just before 9pm at the Tesco petrol station in Axminster. A man threatened staff and left with a substantial amount of cash.

Lyme Regis PC Richard Winward warned all businesses in Lyme Regis to be on high alert.