CRIME in Southwold dropped by 18pc last month after the number of reported incidents fell from 11 to 9.

Police were called to three burglaries, three cases of shoplifting, two cases of criminal damage and one of harassment - down from the number reported in January last year.

But despite the figures, officers are stepping up patrols to stop shoplifters and metal thieves.

The decision to increase the police presence came after two people suspected of shoplifting returned to Southwold.

The suspects stole from Tesco, Co-op and Collen and Clare on Monday January 6 and have been back in the town near closing time.

Officers also plan to visit more parish churches following a rise in metal thefts from historic buildings.

Meanwhile, it has been announced a new police community support officer Amy Wegg will be joining the Southwold Reydon force on Monday March 19.

During a report to Southwold Town Council on Tuesday night, Sgt Nigel Tompsett said: 'These two men [suspected shoplifters] proved they were not very clever by returning to Southwold, but they have been clever enough not to be caught so far.'

He said: 'Metal thefts are an ongoing problem and we felt it would be prudent to raise the level of patrols by visiting our parish churches every week, checking their security, and deter anyone from stealing from them.

'We have reports of men going around asking for scrap. We would urge anyone who sees men in vans to give us a ring and we will respond.'

Speaking about the new PCSO, he added: 'We are looking forward to adding to our strength.'

Police have released descriptions of the men suspected of shoplifting. One man is white, 5ft 8in tall, medium build, approximately 40-year-old, bald with a London accent.

Meanwhile, the second male was described as 6ft 2in tall, slim build, approximately 25 years, with short dark hair.