POLICE will be looking out for crooks in Redcar as part of a Christmas crackdown on shoplifting in the town centre, starting today.

Operation Scrooge is under way to allow shoppers to hunt for Christmas presents safe in the knowledge that thieves will not spoil the festive season.

The aim is to prevent shoplifting and purse-snatching, clamp down on anti-social behaviour, as well as reducing car crime and fear of crime.

Sergeant Nigel McCartney, who is co-ordinating the operation, said: "We want people to feel safe when shopping in Redcar and will be very proactive in dealing with those who come into the town with the intent to steal.

"With the town recently being awarded the safer city shopping award, we want to ensure it stays that way.

"There will be no Christmas cheer for those who get caught, so the message to criminals is to stay away."

Officers and community wardens will be carrying out high-profile and plain-clothed patrols, and will be helped by mounted police around the town.

They will be in close contact with store detectives, security and retail staff, who will be using security cameras and radios to track offenders.

Officers will also be on the lookout for truants during the week.

Pat Denney, Redcar Business Association chairman, said: "The business association will work closely with Cleveland Police and town centre management to make the town centre a safer place."