Maldon shopkeepers have spoken of their fear after burglars are continuing to target High Street businesses.

At least 10 shops have been raided over the past couple of months, often in the middle of the night.

Crooks stole money from tills, staff tips, charity boxes and caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage in their reckless rampage.

Jane Caunt, who runs Pink Roses Tea Room in the High Street, is now reluctant to renew the shop’s lease after the break-ins.

The business has only been open for five months but has already been burgled twice.

She said: “It is a worry. My lease doesn’t end until December 14 but I think in hindsight I will seriously have to consider renewing it.

“It just seems to be ongoing. The two break-ins have cost me a fortune, the best part of £3,000."

See this week's MBS for the full story.