BLOOD IN THE AISLES

Scots shopkeepers warn of tsunami of attacks at hands of violent shoplifters

SHOPKEEPERS have backed calls for emergency action on a "tsunami" of retail crime sweeping Scotland.

The Scottish Grocers' Federation (SGF) has today called on the Scottish Government to act after thousands of assaults on shop workers and reports of thefts doubling in recent months.

The SGF say retailers have reported being abused or assaulted almost 8000 times in just two years.

The federation claims the torrent of shop theft some involving organised crime groups - has led to suspected losses worth millions and led to rising numbers of staff being forced out over safety.

SGF chief executive Dr Pete Cheema said: "I've worked in retail for 35 years. I have been sworn at, attacked, spat at.