A CRACKDOWN on shoplifters, thieves and drink-fuelled thugs is planned for Trowbridge in the run-up to Christmas.

Police are stepping-up patrols of town centre car parks and streets throughout December to combat shoplifters, drink-related crime and vehicle thefts.

Operation Clampdown will see high-profile patrols aimed at specific trouble spots.

Sgt Richard Goodman said police officers would increase street patrols at night to

ensure Christmas celebrations do not spill over into drunken violence.

The Trowbridge Community Safety Group will target shoppers visiting the county town in the run-up to Christmas.

Over the next two weekends, group members will be handing out leaflets to shoppers parking in The Shires and St Stephen's Place multi-storey car park, warning them not to leave goods on show.

West Wiltshire District Council community safety officer Pippa McVeigh said: "The majority of thefts from cars happen because the owner has left goods or valuable on show.

"At this time of year, it is too easy just to dump the Christmas shopping on the back seat, in full view of a potential thief."