Detectives investigating the robbery of a bank in Whitstable have released a CCTV image captured just moments before the raid took place.

An image has been circulated by police of a man they want to speak to in connection with the incident at the high street Barclays branch on Saturday.

The raider is reported to have told staff he had a weapon before handing over a note demanding cash.

Before police arrived he was able to flee the scene with an undisclosed amount of money.

He was described as white, aged about 30 to 40, 5ft 7ins tall and of a slim build.

He had a fair complexion and a freckled face and was wearing a dark navy or black padded jacket with the hood up.

The jacket had small diamond stitching and a gold zip.

Rogan Turner, who witnessed the aftermath, said: "I was just waiting outside the bank when they suddenly locked the doors.

"Then a load of police turned up in four cars and there are a lot of police walking about.

"I heard someone say a man had gone in there and demanded money and might have said he had a gun, but I don't know that for sure."

DCI Adam Ball said: "Whitstable High Street on a Saturday morning would have been very busy and we are hoping someone saw something, either before, after or at the time of the robbery."

Anyone who recognises the man should call police on 01843 222289, or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting reference ZY/11736/17.