PCC, Matthew Barber said: “I believe in social responsibility and in people being engaged in their communities to help keep them safe. People should not turn a blind eye to crime and post about it on social media instead of reporting and assisting the police with information and evidence.

“I have made tackling shoplifting a priority for Thames Valley Police and that has resulted in more criminals being charged, more patrols being visible, easier sharing of evidence from stores, more support for retailers and a focus on the most prolific offenders. As I said in my original comments in June, I am not expecting everyone to be rugby tackling criminals to the ground. I am also not expecting people to put themselves in harm’s way, but this is about being aware and as a minimum reporting shoplifting to the police.

“I encourage retailers, shop workers and the shoppers to report crime so the police can act. It’s their job to investigate and fight crime, including shoplifting. But we can all play a part in building a safer community – at the very least reporting crime we see, rather than accepting it.”