POLICE have warned businesses to protect themselves following an increase in the number of commercial burglaries in Worcester.

Premises in the city centre, Diglis and St John's have been targeted in recent weeks says Worcester safer neighbourhood team inspector Helen Wain.

Insp Wain said: "The targeted premises tend to be small independent businesses. In addition to ongoing investigations into the offences we are directing both high visibility and plain clothes patrols to relevant locations overnight.

"We are working with partner agencies to get the message out to local businesses to ensure they are taking appropriate measures to secure their premises and prevent themselves becoming a victim of burglary. "

West Mercia's Crime Prevention Design Advisor Mike Stephenson is available to any local businesses who would like to discuss their individual premises security in person. He can be contacted on 101 extension 4978. Anyone with any information regarding any offences of this kind can contact police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.