DETECTIVES have released a CCTV image of a man suspected of sparking a siege at a Kent bank.

The drama began when a man entered the Woolwich in Dartford High Street at about 4.40pm on Thursday last week brandishing a small handgun.

Terrifield customers and staff fled in all directions. Some left the building while others locked themselves inside secure rooms where they cowered for hours waiting for help.

Armed police ended a four-hour stand-off by storming the bank - only to discover that the gunman had vanished.

CCTV footage viewed after the siege revealed that the gunman had left almost immediately he had pocketed about £1,600 in cash.

The robber is described as being in his mid thirties, 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build with short dark, receding hair and a widows peak. He was wearing a blue denim jacket, blue jeans, an open collar, white shirt and black shoes.

The Woolwich is offering a reward of up to £15,000 for any information that leads to a successful prosecution. Anyone with information is asked to telephone the police incident room on 01322 283165.