Police are tackling a rise in shoplifting in Helston town centre.

PCSO Mark Rogers told the town’s councillors that the range of items being taken appeared to be “quite diverse” and did not follow any pattern.

It was after Councillor Mike Thomas questioned whether it was particular items or food-related shoplifting.

PCSO Rogers said: “We are in the process of dealing with these incidents. We have a number of positive outcomes likely that we hope will deter shoplifters.”

Speaking after the meeting PCSO Beth Pascoe told the Packet there had been seven incidents of shoplifting between January 16 and February 16 – compared to one during the same time last year.

A number of people had already been caught and dealt with, through restorative justice.

In total there were 40 crimes recorded in the town, eight more than the same period last year.

Ongoing incidents included people staying overnight in public telephone boxes.

They were also staying vigilant over reports of cars being parked and advertised as for sale in lay-bys, with officers ready to take the necessary enforcement action.