CRIME statistics released by Hertfordshire Constabulary show that ten more shops were robbed this year than in the same period last year.

Between April and November in 2000 there were 40 robberies in shops plus 14 which took place in garages.

However, in the same period this year, there were 50 robberies, plus 12 in garages.

As a result, police have issued advice to retailers outlining steps they can take to try to protect themselves from becoming a victim of crime.

The advice includes considering installing CCTV, changing CCTV tapes regularly to ensure their image quality is of a good standard, training staff in personal safety and varying times when tills are emptied and the contents taken for banking.

Chief Inspector Nigel Brown, head of community safety, said: "We will do whatever we can to reduce the number of retail robberies in the county.

"One of the best ways to do this is to lessen the risk of these robberies happening by improving security.

"Any shop or premises requiring further information, or advice about procedures to follow, can contact their local crime prevention officer at their local police station."