Local Policing Units across the county were out in force between 14 and 20 October to support national Safer Business Week.

The nationwide week of action aimed to crack down on anti-social behaviour in shops as well as tackling some of the most prolific shoplifting offenders.

They targeted key retail sites, smaller businesses and industrial estates with initiatives designed to protect property and businesses across the county - including the ShopKind campaign which aims to prevent and challenge violence and abuse against shop workers.

Engagement events were held across the force area with advice given to local businesses and customers.

In Ellesmere Port officers from the local Beat Team attended Cheshire Oaks for the day, deploying the Manchester National Anti-Violence Bee Monument which is currently touring the UK providing education and engagement. Officers engaged in this operation provided education to customers and retailers that sell knives.

LPUs carried out plain clothed patrols in town centres and shopping centres and officers made 18 arrests for various offences including shoplifting, being wanted or breaching orders.

The arrests included a Congleton man charged with five shoplifting offences over the weekend and has appeared in court where he was bailed pending a future trial. Conditions excluding him from several Congleton businesses were imposed.

Inspector Scott Fletcher said: "It was great to see the LPUs out in force making arrests, giving advice on crime prevention, and engaging with the public – all in the name of Safer Business Week.

"This week has also highlighted some great results that were a direct result of the hard work our officers put in when it comes to tackling shoplifting and bringing the most prolific offenders in the county to justice.

"By forming close links and working alongside the local businesses and retailers, and our own partner organisations, we can better protect commercial properties, safeguard their staff and customers and prevent any future offending."