A CASHIER at a Gwent petrol station was confronted by a raider brandishing a knife and demanding money.

It was the second of two robberies in the Torfaen area within an hour last night, and detectives believe the crimes are linked.

The first robbery took place at a garage in Woodland Road, Croesyceiliog, Cwmbran.

No-one at the petrol station wanted to comment this morning, but the member of staff involved was not hurt.

A man then went into the David Taylor Garage in Albion Road, Pontypool, carrying a knife, and threatened the cashier. It is understood that the raider took about £300 from the till.

Janet Garbett, manager of the petrol station, said police had taken CCTV footage from the store to examine it.

Ms Garbett, 41, said: "The cashier, in her twenties, was not harmed, but she was in tears. She was really shaken up by the incident. She was in shock. Cash was taken, but we are not sure how much at this stage."

A man was arrested shortly after the second robbery and a bag was recovered.

Police are appealing for witnesses to either of the incidents or for anyone with information about either offence to contact them on 01633 838111 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

* A 24-year-old man from the Cardiff area was in custody today and was being questioned in relation to both robberies.