POLICE officers have been visiting shops across south-west Wiltshire as part of a national campaign to tackle retail crime and support businesses.

PC Tiley and PCSO Kolasinski spent the day meeting retailers in Mere, Tisbury, Hindon, Ansty, Ludwell, Fovant and Longbridge Deverill during a Retail Crime Awareness Day, held as part of Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action.

The officers called in on a range of businesses, speaking directly with shop owners and staff about any issues they are facing and offering practical advice on preventing crime.

The initiative aimed to strengthen links between businesses and police, while helping officers build a clearer picture of any emerging problems in rural communities.

Wiltshire Police said regular engagement with retailers is vital in identifying crime trends, understanding local concerns and ensuring businesses feel confident about reporting incidents.

By gathering information from those working on the front line of local high streets and village stores, officers hope to spot patterns of offending early and take action before problems escalate.

The visit also provided an opportunity for retailers to raise concerns directly with the neighbourhood policing team and receive guidance on protecting their premises, staff and stock.

Police are encouraging any business owners who would like crime prevention advice, or who have concerns about offending in their area, to get in touch with the Warminster Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Retailers can contact officers by emailing WarminsterAreaNPT@wiltshire.police.uk