Police in Brighton are out to ruin Christmas - at least for criminals.

They have launched a two-pronged blitz on shoplifters and people who have failed to show up in court.

Operation Sleighbell involves high-profile patrols in the town centre and car parks to prevent and combat thefts from shops, customers and cars.

Officers who spot known offenders will warn them they will be instantly arrested at the first sign of trouble.

Sleighbell is being run in conjunction with the Town Centre Business Forum's Retail Crime Initiative.

Their security staff this Christmas will be serving the first batch of new "exclusion orders" on persistent thieves.

If villains ignore the bans and steal again, the orders could mean far stiffer sentences when they get to court.

A million customers are expected to shop at Churchill Square alone this year and businesses are determined to cut out the few hell-bent on not paying.

Forum spokesman Tony Mernagh said: "This is a very active time of year for shoplifters.

"An awful lot steal to fund drug habits but with Christmas coming, they need more so they can also get gifts."

The exclusion orders, backed by magistrates, start with nominations from forum members. These are then vetted by police who approve or disapprove of the nomination.

Sleighbell police are also urging shoppers to be extra vigilant.

Inspector Lorraine Morrison said: "Don't leave anything valuable in your car and keep an eye on your handbags and wallets."

Sleighbell scored its first successes yesterday with the arrest of two shoplifters, one caught with £3,000 worth of designer frames and glasses.

A second campaign, Operation Aftershock, involves 12 officers tracking down those who have failed to attend court, to answer bail or a summons.

Inspector Kevin Claxton said: "If you are wanted on warrant you can be arrested at any time or anywhere."