A Christmas campaign to tackle shoplifters in Braintree has led to 14 reported crimes.

During December, police increased patrols in the town centre and Braintree Freeport retail park to deter shoplifting and purse dipping.

This led to 12 people being prosecuted or arrested.

Martin Richards, acting inspector for Braintree Police, said: “Essex Police’s Christmas Campaign in Braintree has drawn to a close.

“In this period, there has been an increase in police presence in tackling shoplifters during the day in the town centres and Braintree Freeport retail park and festive period patrols at night.

“During the days since December 1 a mix of uniformed and plain clothed police officers have patrolled to provide extra security, a fast response and dissuade those that want to commit crime, be this shoplifting or purse dipping."

See this week's Braintree and Witham Times for the full story.