AN ALLEGED shoplifter has been arrested for a string of thefts worth hundreds of pounds from Helensburgh stores.

A number of alleged shoplifting incidents were reported at supermarkets in the town, stretching over successive days, and police say a 45-year-old man has now been identified in connection with the matters.

Police said the first incident was a theft of sandwiches from the Co-op on July 24 worth £11.75.

Then on September 6, £193.20 worth of meats was taken from Tesco. The next day, it was £116.25 in meats from the same store, and another £116.75 the day after that. And on Wednesday, September 11, £128.15 in meats was taken from the supermarket in Sinclair Street.

In total, £566.10 worth of goods was taken across five thefts allegedly carried out by the accused, who has now been charged with those and four breaches of bail.

Inspector Bart Simonis said: "Local policing in Helensburgh are determined to reduce the impact of acquisitive crime.

"Both our response teams and local community officers are working together to target known criminals who continually target local businesses in our town."