Police are stepping up their patrols after a mini-crimewave in Braintree town centre.

Paul Soweby outside his Blu Orange shop, hit by raiders in Braintree. 40633-a

Traders have welcomed the news and vowed to work with the police to tackle the problem.

A spate of weekend break-ins and attempted burglaries in Braintree town centre prompted the town strategy group, which represents shops and businesses, to call an emergency meeting.

Traders were concerned about six raids that happened on Saturday and Sunday night. Police believe all the incidents were linked.

Inspector Luke Collison, of Braintree police, stressed police would be working in partnership with local authorities.

He said: "We welcome the traders' desire to work with us and we shall be doing everything possible to support them. Increased patrols is a first step but for operational reasons I don't want to give more details about what we shall be doing."

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Published Thursday, January 20, 2005

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