Brentwood Police say a major new operation to combat shoplifting in the town has proved a great success.

Plain clothes officers mingled with High Street shoppers and commuters at Brentwood railway station last week in an attempt to catch suspects after a recent spate of thefts.

Two men from the Rainham area were arrested after stealing gents trousers worth £150 from Marks and Spencer on Tuesday.

They appeared before Basildon Magistrates. They both pleaded guilty and were each fined £100 and ordered to pay £40 costs.

On Wednesday, two more men were arrested for allegedly stealing a bottle of alchohol each from Somerfield. One received a police caution and the other was charged with theft and bailed to appear before magistrates next month.

Police are also appealing for information about a theft from Marks and Spencer at about 4.30pm on Saturday, May 15.

A man was spotted by a witness stealing an armful of short sleeved cardigans and sleeveless jumpers, valued at £272, before getting into a car.

Pc Cheryl Sidaway said: "The witness took down the registration number of the vehicle, which had a woman sitting inside, and gave it to staff in the shop, but unfortunately it was mislaid before we could see it.

"The suspect was in his early 30s, about 5ft 9ins with short, light coloured hair, and was quite distinctive as he carried the items out of the shop without a bag. We would like to speak to the witness who wrote down the car's number, but if any readers have information they can contact me at Brentwood Police Station on 01277 262212."

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