DORSET has been named among the top five areas in the UK for increases in business crime.

Latest figures, released by independent tech retailer Ebuyer, were complied after freedom of information requests were sent to constabularies across the country.

The study found that since 2015 there has been a nine per cent increase in the number of reported thefts affecting businesses nationwide.

Ebuyer commercial director Lee Weymouth said: “The significant increase in the number of business thefts indicates that the risk to business security is higher and more unpredictable than ever.

“As concerning as this is for businesses, there are now a number of ways that firms can protect themselves, including CCTV and thermal sensors.”

Largest increases in business crime was recorded in the Cleveland Police area, Dorset Police, Durham Police, Dyfed-Powys Police and Surrey Police, according to the study.