Angry traders are calling for more visible policing after concerns were raised that burglars could start a fresh thieving spree.

Crooks raided Maldon Craft Shop and Paper Kisses card shop in the High Street over the Christmas period, stealing cash, charity boxes and even a kettle.

Inspector Chris Kilgallen, of Maldon police, said: “We may have the start of a potential trend of burglaries into premises along the High Street.

“In November 2012 we had a similar sort of thing and we didn’t identify suspects for it.”

Last Christmas more than six shops were raided for money, a laptop and even food.

Alan Richardson, whose shop Riverside Cycle Centre was targeted last year, said: “I am not surprised it’s happening again, nowadays there’s no police presence.

“There needs to be more so there is some sort of deterrent.”

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