SHOPLIFTING incidents reached an all time high in Largs during the last reporting period of mid-October to mid-November.

20 incidents were recorded in the town during that period, with the last highest count at 13 incidents earlier this year.

The latest report was included in the crime statistics presented by Police Scotland to Largs Community Council.

The body has raised concerns about the situation over recent months, and police say that they have been working with local businesses to try and alleviate the situation.

Nearly half of the incidents happened at Morrison's supermarket, with four out of nine of these incidents detected.

A quarter of the incidents happened at the Co-op store in Gallowgate Street, with incidents also taking place at McColls and Tesco Express. 

Half of the shoplifting crimes were detected by police at the time of the meeting.

Police Scotland revealed at a North Ayrshire Council meeting earlier this year that there was a greater focus on shoplifting after a reported rise in such offences.

The report to local councillors said: "The current year to date has seen an increase in the number of theft by shoplifting crimes in the sub division.

"A dedicated retail crime team has a focus on the crimes of shoplifting to detect crimes when they occur and to work with retailers to prevent crimes taking place.

"The team will focus on working with retailers to expedite the investigation and bring those responsible to justice.

"Officers engage with the retailers to share information in relation to thefts, provide details on items most likely to be targeted and to ensure security officers within retailers are aware of any current trends.

"North Ayrshire has been subject of organised criminal teams who are operating throughout the country.

"And the use of police bail undertaking or court ordered bail conditions is one method of protecting retailers across North Ayrshire."