POLICE in an east Durham town will tackle the potential for a rise in shoplifting in the run up to Christmas.

Officers from Peterlee Neighborhood Policing Team will be targeting shoplifting and anti-social behavior around Peterlee town centre.

The operation coined Honeygate will run over the festive period, with an increase dedicated patrols.

PC Mark Wearmouth of Durham Constabulary said: “While it is great to catch those who commit crime, we would rather people spend Christmas with their loved ones than in one of our custody suites.

“Christmas is one of the busiest shopping periods and it’s also the busiest time for shoplifters. We want to deter potential thieves and help cut crime.

“Along with retailers and Castledene Security, we will be working hard to ensure a safe and crime-free Christmas.”

He added all stores in the Shopwatch scheme have a photo file of a number of people who are banned from the shopping area.

If they are spotted they will be reported and police will act.