A WORCESTER couple could be forced to shut their shop because brazen thieves repeatedly steal from them.

Sue and Po Yau say gangs of youths just stroll into their store, JJK Express on Bath Road and calmly walk out with crates of alcohol, knowing there's nothing the lone member of staff on duty can do.

They have resorted to locking the shop door at night, which is when the thieves strike, and only letting genuine customers in because they cannot afford to employ two people.

They said it has happened on a weekly basis since they took over about nine months ago and has got so bad they are thinking of closing the store.

Mrs Yau, aged 37 said: "It's impossible for this business to survive with people stealing stuff and the competition.

"We think we might need to give the business up.

"I try to stop some of them but they just go. They walk out calmly - they don't even run.

"Someone stands by the door ready to open it for them.

"The same people come back again a week later."

She said the thieves are even choosy about what alcohol they steal, walking out empty handed if there is no Grolsch lager on the shelves.

In the front window there is a CCTV image taken from the store's security cameras on Friday, June 29, when a man walked into J&J Pharmacy next door, which the couple run, and stole the cash box containing a day's takings.

The couple also own the neighbouring launderette Time Saver.

Mrs Yau said they have not reported the majority of incidents to the police, because she did not think anything could be done.

A Worcester police spokesman said the only reported incident of lager theft from the premises occurred on Thursday, August 23. "It was promptly attended by officers and is still under investigation," he said.

"We are not, however, aware of any organised or concerted theft from stores using this type of method.

"We always encourage retailers to report all suspected and actual crime at the time to enable the appropriate and proper police response.

"This could be from the perspective of both investigating actual crimes providing crime prevention advice and reassurance."

The spokesman added that the theft of the cash-box was also attended by officers and inquiries are continuing to identify the offender.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 08457 444888.