A man has been charged with robbing two chemists and threatening staff with an imitation firearm.

Prescription drugs were stolen during hold-ups at Lloyds Pharmacy stores in Ashtead and Oxshott earlier this month.

Luke Wilson, 25, appeared in court today charged with robbery and having an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

The community in Ashtead were left in shock after a raid on the pharmacy in Craddocks Parade at about 6.30pm on Tuesday, June 2.

Just a week later, on June 9, a robber threatened staff and stole drugs and cash from Lloyds Pharmacy in Oxshott High Street.

Mr Wilson, of no fixed address, appeared at Staines Magistrates’ Court today and has been remanded in custody. He is set to appear at Guildford Crown Court on July 2.

Another man, from Epsom, was previously arrested in connection with the crimes, but he has now been eliminated from the investigation.