More than 100 arrests have been made across Hertfordshire town centres as part of a winter policing initiative aimed at keeping communities safe during the busiest time of year.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams from Hertfordshire Constabulary increased their presence in town centres and retail areas throughout December and into the New Year, targeting crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The operation follows last summer's Safer Town Centre campaign, which focused on tackling retail and street crime. This winter initiative has also placed additional emphasis on addressing violence against women and girls, particularly in areas linked to the night-time economy.

As of Wednesday 7 January, a total of 122 arrests had been made in town centres across the county since the beginning of December. Officers have also been working closely with local councils, shops and venues to prevent criminal activity and improve safety for residents, visitors and businesses.

Superintendent Dave Cooke said: "While we work to keep our town centres safe throughout the year, the winter has seen a step up in activity targeting shoplifting, personal robberies and crimes often associated with the night time economy such as sexual offences.

"With these arrests we have removed more than 100 suspects from town centre streets, hopefully reassuring residents that they continue to be safe places to visit."

The enforcement activity forms part of the Safer Town Centres priority set out by Hertfordshire's Police and Crime Commissioner, Jonathan Ash-Edwards.

He said: "Our town centres are a vital part of Hertfordshire's economy and ensuring people can visit them to socialise, shop and work safely is a core priority in my Police and Crime Plan. The Safer Town Centre campaign is delivery in action.

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"I'm grateful for the hard work of Hertfordshire's police officers, PCSOs and staff over the busy Christmas period. As Police and Crime Commissioner, I'm determined that Hertfordshire's town centres remain safe and welcoming places for everyone."

Hertfordshire has 33 local Neighbourhood Policing Teams, most of which are based in town centre locations across every district. For Hitchin residents, officers continue to patrol key areas, particularly during busy shopping periods and evenings, providing reassurance and tackling issues reported by the community.

Residents can report ongoing concerns about their local area online via the police website. In an emergency, always call 999. For non-emergency matters, reports can be made online, via live web chat, or by calling 101.