Police investigating the armed robbery of two service stations in Newcastle last week have released a CCTV image of a person who may be able to assist with inquiries.

About 12.30am on Wednesday 9 April 2014, a woman entered the store on Thomas Street, armed with a firearm.

She threatened the employee and demanded cash before fleeing with cigarettes and money.

About 12.45am, a woman entered a service station on Maitland Street at Mayfield armed with a firearm.

The woman threatened the attendant before fleeing with food items.

Detectives from Newcastle City Local Area Command believe the incidents are linked and are appealing for public assistance in an attempt to identify and locate the woman involved.

Investigators have released an image of a woman they believe can assist with inquiries. The woman in the image is of Caucasian appearance and wearing a blue shirt and a beanie.