Exmouth police are set to offer advice to traders and retailers during Safer Business Action Week.

The initiative, which is part of a national week of action, begins on October 14 and aims to reduce business crime.

This involves police and partners across the country coming together to use various tactics.

The aim is to decrease shoplifting, anti-social behaviour, cyber crime, and scams, all of which can affect a business's profitability.

The police hope to strengthen the relationship between retail, security, and police by sharing information, identifying prolific offenders, and tailoring policing solutions to tackle crime.

Exmouth Police community support officer Chris Ball will be stationed at Exmouth Library on October 14, 15, 17, and 18 from 10am to 12pm.

He will be available to answer questions and provide prevention advice on issues such as fraud and scams.

Mr Ball is open to discussing any concerns about business crime and can give guidance on reporting incidents.

The local neighbourhood police team has been focusing on certain shopping areas in Exmouth, including the Magnolia Centre and The Strand.

In recent months, officers have acted against prolific shoplifters and secured a Criminal Behaviour Order against one, resulting in the offender being removed from the town.

The police have also been tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) offences by a group of youths.

The offenders have been put through the courts and are subject to the ASB escalation process.

Over the summer, police carried out highly visible hotspot foot patrols.

They were supported by Exmouth street marshals who also liaise with town businesses.

The double-crewed marshals provide further public reassurance and share information with the police.

Assistant Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police, Glen Mayhew, said: "We are aware of the impact that business crime can have on our communities.

"Tackling this issue remains a priority for the Force, and weeks of action like this are ideal times for us to demonstrate what we are doing, and will continue to do, to help protect local businesses.

"By taking a collaborative and proactive approach, we can deploy resources to specific locations on patrol and directly target offenders."

Safer Business Action Week provides an opportunity to discuss concerns, share crime prevention advice, and offer support to those affected by business crime.