There has been a "significant" increase in shoplifting across south-east England.

Figures for the last year up to June released by the Office for National Statistics showed a 48% in Sussex.

Usdaw, the retail trade union, said there had been a "persistent upward trend" and it was "deeply concerned".

Paddy Lillis, the union's general secretary, said the increase in was "further evidence that we are facing an epidemic of retail crime".

Usdaw’s 2023 annual survey of over 5,500 shop workers found that 60% had suffered incidents of violence, threats and abuse that were triggered by shoplifting and armed robbery.

Mr Lillis said: “It is increasingly common for retail stores to be targeted by organised crime gangs stealing to order.

"This is in no way a victimless crime, with weapons and violence used to ensure these criminals are not stopped."