Staff at two post offices had a gun pulled on them during terrifying robberies just two miles apart.
The incidents took place within minutes of each other on Friday afternoon and are believed to be carried out by the same person.
The first happened between 3pm and 3.30pm when a man wearing dark clothing entered County Road post office in Ormskirk and pulled out a gun .
After making demands for money, the man left the scene empty handed.
At around 4.10pm, a man matching the same description, entered Square Lane post office in Burscough , just two miles away, and again pulled out a gun and made demands for money.
Once again, the suspect left without stealing anything but staff and members of the public were left extremely shaken by the incident.
Shortly after the second robbery was reported, a 21-year old man was arrested on Flax Lane, Burscough on suspicion of robbery and an imitation firearm was recovered nearby.
Detective Inspector Steve Monk, of South Police , said: “We are aware that members of the public were present during the robbery at County Road and we are keen for those people to contact us as soon as possible.
“Incidents of this nature are rare but I know that this will be very concerning for local residents.
"I would like to reassure you that we have a team of detectives working on this investigation and there are additional reassurance patrols in the area.
"If you were present at County Road Post office or have any information with regards to these offences, please contact police on 101 quoting log number 1096 of July 19th or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
