Thefts have fallen after the police ramped up support to one of Hitchin's most targeted businesses.

The North Herts Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) has reported a significant reduction in shoplifting incidents at the BP Stevenage Road store.

This is one of the early positive results of their work against retail crime in Hitchin.

The BP store had been a frequent target for shoplifters, with 75 recorded thefts since January 2024.

However, since the start of a collaborative operation in October, no thefts have been reported.

Hitchin NPT Sergeant Taz Gill said: "We have formed an excellent relationship with the store and I wish to extend my thanks to all store staff for their ongoing efforts.

"Our collaborative approach has reduced the number of shopliftings in addition to the various crime prevention methods which have been put in place."

Sgt Gill also stated that several offenders have been identified and taken to court.

He said: "We have a zero-tolerance approach to thefts—regardless of items and value.

"The impact of store thefts is not only financial loss for the business, but the store staff often face these offenders which can be intimidating and cause worry."

BP's Europe mobility and convenience security manager, Iona Blake, praised the partnership for their successful collaboration.