Post offices have called in security guards after a wave of armed raids.

The decision was taken following a terrifying robbery in which a robber held a gun to a customer’s head.

Last night detectives released a dramatic CCTV stills of the raid in Western Road, Hove, last week, in a bid to identify the man they believe may have carried out a series of similar crimes.

Branches in Western Road and Melville Road – which has been targeted three times since September – now have security guards on their doors.

Post Office Ltd, which has offered a £25,000 reward for information leading to a conviction, said the move was a short-term measure to reassure customers and staff.

A spokesman said yesterday: “I can confirm that we have placed security guards on a temporary basis at two of our Crown Offices in Brighton and Hove following a series of robberies.

“This was to give our staff and customers confidence in the safety and security of these offices.

“A police investigation is on-going and we would urge anyone with information to contact them.”

For full report see today's Argus.