Shopkeepers have banned 27 people from visiting dozens of town centre shops, pubs and clubs.

The Gravesend "Keep Out" orders are for six months or a year, but include sentences of up to three years.

Anyone considered a nuisance has their case heard by two independent shopkeepers, and can appeal the ban to two more traders.

Today police launched a new daily briefing for the 84 shopkeepers who belong to the G-Safe scheme.

It coincides with the introduction of an eight strong town centre police and community support officers.

Josh Jankowitz from BHS said: "It's good to see the police stepping in a bit more to get rid of shoplifters, who will hopefully learn their lesson."