Raised crime fears within a town led to a 'walkabout' visit by its police and crime commissioner. 

Concerns about potential money laundering, anti-social behaviour, drug running and the lack of a police presence were all raised at the recent annual town meeting in Uppingham. 

In response, elected crime commissioner Rupert Matthews went out with police officer George Pears to talk to businesses about retail crime. 

The pair met retailers who have been the target of shoplifting and discussed strategies underway to reduce crime. 

The commissioner also met Mayor of Uppingham Dave Ainslie and deputy Mark Shaw to show the concerns raised at the meeting were being acted upon. 

Mr Matthews said: "I was pleased to be able to visit some of the businesses I spoke to at the recent town meeting, so that they could hear what was being done to address their concerns. 

"Protecting retailers and their employees from crime is a responsibility I take very seriously. I engage with businesses and town centre partners frequently and I understand the frustration and distress shop owners face when their livelihoods come under constant threat. 

"Shoplifting hurts businesses and it hurts the economy. It puts the jobs of honest and hard-working people on the line. I've worked hard to increase support for businesses, listening to their experiences and talking through possible solutions with partners. We will be following up these issues with the wider neighbourhood team and considering what other measures are needed." 

Cllr Ainslie said he is pleased the commissioner responded so quickly and there has been a noticeable increase in the beat officer's presence in the town since the criticisms at the town meeting. 

He said: "I think the visible presence of our beat officer and PCSO makes a huge difference to perception. Residents want to see their police officers walking the streets." 

Business crime is a key priority in the new Police and Crime Plan, with the commissioner vowing to do 'everything in his power' to reduce shoplifting and to eliminate assaults on shop workers.