A CRACKDOWN on shoplifting and car crime in the region's leading shopping centre has been a big success.

Figures published today show that car and retail crimes at Gateshead's MetroCentre have been halved.

In the six months from April to October, car thefts at MetroCentre fell by 52 per cent and retail crime by 49 per cent, compared with the same period last year. It follows an increase in the number of bobbies on the beat.

Gateshead West Area Command has ten officers based in the centre's blue mall. This includes four community beat managers who, since March, have each been patrolling one of the four malls and their adjoining car parks.

Sergeant Alan Parks, who heads the team, warned shoppers to be extra vigilant over the festive season.

"At this time of year, people should be extra careful," he said. "People often leave items in vehicles while they return to do more shopping or have something to eat.

"However, criminals are aware of this, so we would advise shoppers not to leave their shopping unattended.

"Also, shoppers should be more aware of the possibility of opportunist thieves.

"Although the chances of this happening are remote, we would urge people to protect their wallet, purse or handbag when browsing the shops and also when sitting down to have a meal."

Terry Atkinson, the MetroCentre's security manager, said: "The measures outlined are purely preventative, as crime at MetroCentre has always been low.

"Traditionally, the MetroCentre is one of the safest places to shop in the country and our prime objective is that we maintain the safe environment."