A MAN was arrested following an incident in ASDA in Warrington as part of a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in shops.

During this week of action between October 14 and 20, officers from local policing units across Cheshire tackled some of the most prolific shoplifting offenders.

As Safer Business Week, they also targeted retail sites, smaller businesses and industrial estates with initiatives designed to protect property and businesses across the county - including the ShopKind campaign which aims to prevent and challenge violence and abuse against shop workers.

Engagement events were held across the force area with advice given to local businesses and customers.

During this week, police responded to a report of a man stealing vouchers from ASDA in Birchwood.

He made off from the scene but was found by officers a short time later and following a search, he was found in possession of the stolen items and was arrested.

The man was also found to be wanted on an outstanding failure to appear warrant.

Meanwhile down the road in Widnes, a woman who had been wanted for a theft offence since September was arrested and subsequently charged and bailed to appear before the court at a later date.

Inspector Scott Fletcher said: “It was great to see the LPUs out in force making arrests, giving advice on crime prevention, and engaging with the public – all in the name of Safer Business Week.

“This week has also highlighted some great results that were a direct result of the hard work our officers put in when it comes to tackling shoplifting and bringing the most prolific offenders in the county to justice.

"By forming close links and working alongside the local businesses and retailers, and our own partner organisations, we can better protect commercial properties, safeguard their staff and customers and prevent any future offending."