A manhunt is under way following a cash robbery and an attempted robbery within an hour of each other at two shops in East Ayrshire.

The first incident happened at about 7.40pm on Saturday when a man with a knife threatened a 55-year-old male shopkeeper in Ali's General Store on Hearth Place, Cumnock. The suspect left empty-handed.

The second incident took place at about 8.20pm in the Day to Day store on Highpark Avenue, New Cumnock when a man threatened a 37-year-old shopkeeper with a knife before making off with a three-figure sum of money.

The suspect in both incidents is described as being white and 5ft 7in to 5ft 10in tall. He was wearing a blue and grey jacket, a light-coloured face mask or scarf, black trousers, dark footwear and gloves.

DCI Alan Sommerville said: "Thankfully on neither occasion were staff injured but what happened was very distressing and frightening for them to experience.

"Unfortunately, this is the second time the shop in New Cumnock was targeted; the last time being in November last year when another member of staff was on duty.

"From our investigations, we believe that it is the same man who is responsible for both incidents last night.

"We also believe, due to the timescale and the distance of seven miles between the two shops, he must have had access to some form of transport.

"From CCTV and from speaking to staff, we know that there were a number of people outside both shops shortly before and after the crimes.

"We understand some were regulars and would ask them or anyone who recognises the description of the suspect or who has information that will assist officers with their inquiries to come forward.

"One line of inquiry is that the suspect may have had an accomplice - maybe someone hanging outside the shops when he was inside. Again, if you saw anything unusual, then call police at Kilmarnock CID via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence."