POLICE in Purbeck have seen crimes like shoplifting and vehicle thefts reduce by almost a third.

According to figures from Purbeck Police thefts from vehicles in Wareham have dropped by 33 per cent since April. Shoplifting offences in Swanage have also seen a 26 per cent reduction in the same time frame.

In Wareham the neighbourhood policing team has held some crime reduction events to get the word out and raise awareness about removing valuables from vehicles.

And in Swanage, the local team have been working with shopkeepers and business owners to reduce shoplifting in the town.

Police have been advising them on security and how to secure the best evidence, such as CCTV, that would assist with prosecutions.