A CRACKDOWN on shoplifting is set to take place in a Hampshire town ahead of Christmas.

Police in Romsey say that are taking part in Operation Scrooge.

An initiative aimed at deterring shoplifting and reducing anti-social behaviour in the run-up to Christmas.

Targeted patrols are now set to take place in the town which officers say are aimed at "preventing organised, and opportunistic, shop lifters".

Anti-social behaviour hot spots will also be targeted with police leasing with retailers and giving advice to shoppers.

Test Valley Inspector Chris Taylor said: “As Christmas approaches, more and more people will be out and about in our town’s shops and banks.

“Test Valley is a safe place to live and work but it is not immune to people who wish to take advantage of shoppers and businesses at this time of year.

“The aim of our operation is to deter and detect crime and provide reassurance to the public and businesses.

“We will continue to use tactics that have proved successful in previous years to make sure those who commit crime in the town centre are dealt with robustly.

We would also encourage retail outlets to report any thefts online. This enables us to build a better picture and target our resources in future years.”

The operation is set to end as of December 24.