SHOPLIFTERS and troublemakers in the Kingfisher Centre will be the main focus of a police operation launched this week.

Operation Holly will see a number of extra officers drafted in to carry out high- visibility patrols within the centre in the run-up to Christmas.

Sgt Andy Millwood, of Redditch central sector, said he hoped the operation would provide reassurance to shoppers.

He said: "At this time of year, the centre becomes very busy and we want to make sure people can go about their shopping in a safe environment without fear of crime.

"We would also encourage people to think carefully about their bags and how they carry money about.

"People should make sure their bags are held closely to them and they are securely fastened, with no purses on show."

Officers will also be liaising with CCTV operators in the centre to ensure pickpockets or shoplifters are caught.

Meanwhile, police dog handlers will continue to join high-profile street patrols in the town centre on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 11pm-3am.

Operation Guinevere aims to tackle drink-fuelled fights and disorder.