FOOTAGE of a suspected serial bank robber who is believed to have struck in Wanstead has been released as part of a desperate attempt to catch him.

The man, who is white and aged around 30, allegedly held up Barclays Bank on the High Street at around 1.45pm on Wednesday September 16.

According to police he told staff he had a gun before demanding they hand over cash.

He is also suspected to have struck at banks in Enfield, Islington, Loughton and Waltham Abbey over the past three months.

A police spokesman said: "On each occasion the male suspect enters the branch, approaches the front counter and tells staff he is in possession of a firearm, before demanding money.

"Staff members hand an amount of money over to him and he leaves the premises."

In none of the alleged robberies were any weapons actually seen by witnesses.

The man is described of medium build, and often wears dark sunglasses and a fisherman-style hat.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Flying Squad on 020 7230 8666. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.