Police are cracking down on shoplifting in a Wiltshire town centre to tackle “intimidation and threats of violence.”

As part of a Safer Business Action Week, Wiltshire Police officers will be focusing on targeting shoplifters and liaising with businesses.

Officers from the Calne Neighbourhood Team have pledged to clamp down on retail offences in the town and will be carrying out foot patrols in the town centre during the week.

Police will be in Phelps Parade to speak to shoppers and retailers on Wednesday, October 16, and Thursday, October 17.

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A spokesperson for the force said: “With the support of local retailers, we are determined to crack down on those who seek to flout the law and bring them to justice.

“Shoplifting is not a victimless crime, aside from the very real financial impact it has on businesses and the communities they serve, such crimes have an emotional impact on the staff who often have to face intimidation and threats of violence.”

Anyone who witnesses an incident of shoplifting has been urged to report it to shop staff or to call 999 if a crime is in progress.

Retailers interested in joining the Business Watch initiative should contact their local policing team, which can be found via the Wiltshire Police website.