The first incident took place at around 8.35pm on February 28 at the Co-operative store in Kilbarchan and the second at around 8.35pm on March 14 at the 101 off sales in Johnstone.

A shop assistant — a 29-year-old man — was threatened with a weapon during a raid at the One O One store in Kilbarchan Road at around 8.35pm.

The crook then ran out of the shop with a three figure sum of cash leaving the staff uninjured but shaken.

The man is understood to have made off in a small silver coloured vehicle driving towards Kilbarchan.

He is described as being around 5”6 - 5”8 in height, medium/well built with a distinctive nose and chin. He was wearing a dark hooded top, dark tracksuit bottoms and black trainers.

Sgt Mack said: “We are following a positive line of enquiry in connection with the robbery and we believe this could possibly linked to the one at the Co-operative store in Kilbarchan.” It is believed the same man entered the Co-op store on High Barholm at around 8.35pm on February 28 and threatened members of staff with a weapon before stealing cash.

On Monday police released images of a man that they wish to speak to in connection with their investigation.

Detective Sergeant Ross MacDonald at Paisley CID said: “We would like to hear from anyone who recognises the description of the culprit or anyone who may have seen him hanging about the area around the time of the robbery. We are also seeking further information on the silver coloured car which the suspect used to escape.” “It may not seem like much but as part of our broader enquiries your information could be very useful to our enquiry.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Paisley Police Office on 101 or alternatively CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.