Public urged to attend this Thursday's police meeting

The meeting was called after the recent spate of burglaries and thefts in Banbridge.

Speaking on the issue Cllr Lockhart said: “It is alarming when I have been out advertising my public meeting the number of people be it businesses and home owners who have been subjected to burglaries and problems with anti-social behaviour.

“This public meeting is aimed at addressing some of the concerns, allowing home and business owners to have their say with the local PSNI and to allow real engagement that is aimed at helping to tackle this dreaded crime.

“The meeting with take place on Thursday night (11th February) at 7pm in Banbridge Leisure Centre.”

Since the meeting was called last week, a further two burglaries have taken place in the town - in Granville Gardens and Richmond Heights

A man has also been arrested for the thefts at Card Cave.

During three thefts in five days at the Banbridge premises, several hundred pounds worth of Yankee Candles were stolen.

Cllr Paul Greenfield added: “When I last met with the chamber of trade in Banbridge burglaries were high on the agenda. I welcome the fact that the PSNI have agreed to a public meeting with this being one of the main topics for discussion. I would encourage everyone to be vigilant.”