A man was being questioned today in connection with 11 armed robberies on off-licences and shops in Brighton and Hove.

The man, in his 30s, was arrested last night on Brighton seafront in a special police operation and was today being held at John Street police station.

Police said today they had been carrying out covert patrols in their hunt for the man responsible for the raids. They believe he steals to feed his drug habit.

The first robbery took place last July and the raider struck at Thresher in Western Road, Hove, at the end of January.

A 19-year-old assistant said: "I was terrified. He was shouting and waving his knife around. He made me and my colleague lie face-down on the floor while he took the money."

Anyone with information should call Brighton CID on 0845 6070999.

The Argus and Sussex Police have offered a £2,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the offender.