Shoplifters beware. Anyone cautioned or charged with committing an offence in the town centre could be banned from central Croydon for up to a year.

This comes after Croydon Council and Croydon police officially launched the Croydon Against Business Crime (CABC) campaign, which is designed to help local businesses reduce losses.

The initiative will see anyone charged or cautioned for an offence at one store, provided they are signed up to CABC, banned from stores for three months if under 17 or for 12 months if an adult of 17 or above.

In addition, photographs of any adults charged or cautioned will be circulated to all participating stores.

Inspector Jonathan White said: "I welcome this opportunity to work in partnership with local businesses to reduce crime further in central Croydon.

"Police will serve a banning notice on those charged or cautioned for shoplifting in addition to any punishment the courts deliver later.

"This will reduce business losses and free up police time to deal with other crimes and provide greater reassurance to the public by being on the streets more."