TRADERS are calling on police to take action to curb two 12-year-old boys who they blame for a series of thefts in Malmesbury.

Chamber of Commerce chairman Alan Woodward said the boys live in the town and are known to shop owners. A 12-year-old boy was arrested on Tuesday in connection with offences in the town. He has been released on police bail.

However, Mr Woodward, who owns Woodward's Jewellers, in the High Street, said he would like to see more done to deal with them.

"They seem to be nicking at will," said Mr Woodward. "A lot of people are fed up and we want reassurances that something is being done about them, particularly when the police should be aware of them."

He said the problem would be discussed at the chamber of commerce's monthly meeting on Monday.

Last week, two boys distracted an assistant in Athelstan Attic shop in Cross Hayes and stole £40 from the till.

Sergeant Kier Pritchard, of Malmesbury police, said officers relied on the public for information regarding nuisance crime in the town and were keen to work with traders on stamping it out.