A PROLIFIC shoplifter has been banned from Burnley town centre after being given an Anti Social Behaviour Order.

David Cliffe, 20, of Barden Lane, is no longer allowed into the town centre or retail parks including the Anchor retail park, Asda on Princess Way and the Prestige retail park.

He was given the ASBO earlier this week after appearing in court on theft and attempted theft charges.

Police said he also had a history of aggression towards members of staff in town centre stores, including Boots and Woolworths.

Insp Damian Darcy said: "The reason we have taken out this anti social behaviour order is because this man is a prolific shoplifter.

"He has been arrested on a number of occasions and has not learned his lesson. These ASBOs are a useful tool to prevent people like David Cliffe committing further crimes in the town centre and acting in an anti-social way.

"They are there to protect the people who use the town centre and the people who work in the shops."

A spokesman for Boots said: "We welcome any action that is taken to try and prevent individuals who shoplift or are aggressive towards staff from entering shops in the town centre and this shows how closely the police and businesses in Burnley work together."