POLICE say they are concerned that there is currently a team of travelling criminals in the South Lakeland area.

PC Jim Bell of Windermere said the team are targeting high value spirits and are selecting items from the display and placing them into a basket or trolley before secreting the items on their person as they move around the store.

He said the team members then leave the store without paying and previously they have targeted Co-op stores but may well visit any other suitable retailer.

Police describe the suspects as all male and of dark European or Asian complexion with dark hair.

Police said as there are a number of offenders involved, the description deliberately avoids much detail to avoid confusion and heighten vigilance.

Police have requested that staff pay particular vigilance to the spirit displays and report any suspicious activity as soon as possible - noting a description of the offenders and their clothing as well as any vehicle details and a direction of travel.

The gang are typically targeting stores between 3pm and 6pm, said police.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log CP-20141206-0187.