POLICE were called to Bournemouth town centre after reports of shop staff receiving abuse.

Bournemouth South Neighbourhood Policing Team spent the morning of April 23 “ensuring the safety of local businesses in the area” by responding to numerous incidents.

Officers attended WH Smith where staff were receiving abusive behaviour from a male, before a section 35 dispersal notice was issued and he left the scene.

Shortly after, officers responded to a separate incident where a male stole a pair of shoes from Deichman and attempted to flee.

Police pursued the male and successfully detained him outside the town hall.

The stolen shoes were returned and the perpetrator will now be facing a court date for shoplifting.

Bournemouth Police said on social media: “We remain dedicated to ensuring the safety of local businesses and their hardworking staff. Your safety is our priority.”