POLICE have been conducting patrols in a number of supermarkets in the Wrexham area this week.

North Wales Police officers say that they have been doing so following an 'increase' in shoplifting.

The 'anti-shoplifting patrols' have been carried out at shops like the Co-op in Marford Hill and the Co-op in Rossett, among others.

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PCSO Dean Sawyer said that patrols will be continued in order to deter any potential shoplifters.

He said: "Patrols completed in a number of supermarkets this week after an increase in shoplifting. Patrols ongoing."

Last month, police urged struggling residents to seek help before turning to crime to address their financial difficulties.

According to a report by financial news site TradingPedia, shoplifting is on the rise in the UK - mainly due to the "constantly rising cost of living and food prices that are subject to the most rapid increase in over four decades."