Police arrested a 40-year-old woman for theft yesterday within two hours of the launch of a Christmas crackdown.

Officers in Lewes are focusing on known shoplifters, car criminals and burglars.

The operation involves high-visibility patrols by the Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Inspector Dave Padwick said: "This seasonal campaign is now in full swing.

"Working with shop-keepers and publicans, the small nucleus of active criminals in Lewes should start to feel the pressure is really on.

"We are pulling together to make Lewes an even safer place this Christmas.

"Key to this operation will be high visibility, targeted foot patrols in the town centre and extra police officers patrolling the town on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights."

The police have been working with the town's Chamber of Commerce in advance of the late-night shopping event on Thursday.

Mr Padwick said: "This single event is a showcase for the town's shops and we will do all we can to make it crime-free."