RANGERS protecting Winchester city centre have recovered more than £25,000 worth of goods stolen from shops in the high street in the last year.

The achievement by the team employed by Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) have stopped thieves from making off with the products, some of which have later gone on to be prosecuted.

Winchester BID executive director Dr Paul Spencer said: “We are very pleased with the positive feedback we have received from local businesses and members of the public about the Winchester BID Rangers scheme.

“Working with the police and other agencies, the Rangers help to reduce business crime and provide additional security in the city centre.

“In the last year the Rangers have helped to recover over £25,000 worth of goods from offenders attempting to steal from local businesses.”

During the Covid-19 pandemic the Rangers have played a crucial role keeping watch on closed business premises and offering reassurance and assistance to business which have been open during the lockdown.

They are now assisting more businesses as the reopen and helping to welcome the public back to the city centre,” Dr Spencer said.

One business, who has not been named, said: “During the lockdown while many businesses were unoccupied and vulnerable to security threats, their continued presence on the streets has been a huge deterrent and welcomed by all.”

The scheme was first launched in November 2018 to provide a professional and reassuring presence for shoppers, business owners and local residents.