THE subject of shoplifting being on the rise was debated at this week’s meeting of Ross-on-Wye Town Council.

Councillor Daniel Lister told members that shop owners have been urged to report thefts to the police to combat the increase of people coming in with bags and walking out without paying for the items.

Cllr Lister understands that it can sometimes feel as though reporting incidents to the police is not worthwhile but added: “It is important that we do so. Increased reporting helps the police build accurate statistics and supports the allocation of resources, including having more officers on the ground.

Cllr Lister told the Ross Gazette that he had intervened and prevented two individuals from shoplifting from a well-known high street chain.

He said: “Unfortunately for them, they had to return the items, which I estimate were worth over £40. The staff were very grateful, and I was pleased to be able to help. However, I would not recommend that others intervene in this way.”

“While I do not advise stepping in as I did, there are several ways people can help and this includes report any incidents to store staff.”

Report concerns to your local neighbourhood policing team or contact the police by calling 101 for non-emergencies. But call 999 if there is an immediate risk or danger to customers or staff.

A police representative at Monday’s meeting said that the local neighbourhood policing team were aware of the situation and were taking measures to counteract this growing problem in the town.

A number of people have responded to Cllr Lister’s social media posts on the subject and have backed his initiative in highlighting the problem.

For more information search for the Ross-on-Wye page at the website: neighbourhoodmatters.co.uk.