A police operation has been tackling shoplifting in a town centre and retail park.

The operation has been carried out by police in collaboration with shops across Leigh town centre and Parsonage Retail Park.

Police say that over the course of the operation they have handed out dozens of criminal behaviour orders, which exclude people from certain part of the town centre.

PC Simon Winrow, of GMP’s Wigan district, said: “By working closely with stores, we are able to provide important information on reporting and dealing with crimes when they come in.

“We are committed to tackling shoplifting in the retail park and across Leigh, using various orders, tools and resources to do so.

The Bolton News: Police have partnered with shops on the operationPolice have partnered with shops on the operation (Image: GMP)

“If you are a retailer in Leigh, please do get in touch, as we are determined to aid you where we can.

“You can do this by talking to an officer, or attending one of our local PACT meetings, which are advertised on our social media pages.”

Officers say that they have also been working with shop management teams to try and prevent future crimes and problem behaviour.

Sue Andrew, from GMP’s Crime Prevention Team, said: “Prevention is a key part of tackling crime.

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“By analysing the root causes of the problems, we can work with key stakeholders and members of the retail community to develop bespoke problem solving solutions.

"These could include improvements to CCTV and lighting, physical security measures, risk assessments and staff training.

“By implementing a range of risk commensurate measures we can remove the opportunities to offend, and increase the risk for offenders."