POLICE have arrested a man for questioning over two attempted robberies in north Belfast this afternoon.

At around 3.20 pm a man was reported to have entered a shop in North Queen Street armed with a knife, demanding money.

No money was handed over and the man made off in a silver coloured car.

A short time later a second incident was reported when a man entered a shop in Alliance Avenue claiming to have a knife and demanding money.

The man was disturbed by a customer and left the scene empty handed, making off in a silver car.

The man involved in both incidents was described as being of heavy build, wearing dark rimmed glasses and a baseball cap.

At around 4.20pm a silver coloured car was stopped by police in North Queen Street and a man in his 20’s arrested in connection with both incidents.

He is currently in custody helping police with their enquiries.

Police would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed either incident or who has any information to contact them at CID in Tennent Street on the non-emergency number 101.

Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.