SHOPLIFTERS intent on filling their own Christmas stockings for free are being warned that the police are on the look-out for them.

Retail crime, which includes shoplifting and employee theft, during the six weeks from the middle of November until the end of December, costs businesses almost £1billion nationally.

In Worcester, West Mercia police are working with shops to send a clear message to potential shoplifters that they are not welcome in shops and shopping centres. If they are caught in the act they will be arrested and risk being banned from their local shopping centre. Under 18s caught red-handed will have their parents called.

Superintdendent David Gardner said: “Shoplifters and thieves may think they are getting the ultimate bargain by paying nothing at all. But ultimately, we all end up paying for this type of crime. The cost to businesses invariably gets passed on to customers and this equates to £37 for each family in the country."

In addition, police are also advising honest shoppers to protect their own property while out shopping and not fall victim to pick-pickets or thieves. They suggest: keeping your bags closed and close to you at all times and either strap them across your body or hold them securely under your arm; never leave bags unattended, even for a few seconds; beware of anyone acting suspiciously, such as trying to distract you by bumping into you or getting too close to you; report any suspicious behaviour to shop staff, security guards or the police; don’t let anyone see what is in your purse or wallet and avoid carrying large amounts of cash around, never keep your pin with your bank cards; always shield your pin when entering it in a chip and pin device or cash point; don’t allow yourself to be distracted when withdrawing cash and don’t leave items on display in your car and make sure you lock your vehicle.