SHOPLIFTERS have hit a store so frequently that a pensioner worried about thieves has vowed not to go back.

Nigel Jarvis is worried about the safety of shoppers and staff at the Co-op store on Bridge Road in Southampton.

The 64-year-old said he does not feel safe visiting the Peartree shop due to the level of antisocial behaviour he has experienced.

The retired gardener claims he has witnessed shoplifters take advantage of busy periods at the store.

READ MORE: Rat and fruit fly infestation found at Southampton bar

He described seeing them fill shopping baskets with "hoards" of stock before fleeing.

Nigel, who has lived in the area for nine years, says the crime level has "never been this bad before". 

He claims the level of crime at the shop has spiked within the last few months and he regularly witnesses people stealing stock from the shelves.

Nigel claims shoplifters regularly target the store and is now campaigning for on-the-door security to ensure the safety of staff and shoppers. 

READ MORE: Why these 9 people have been in the dock at Southampton Magistrates' Court

The Co-op said safety and security is "a priority" and they work closely with the police to deter criminal behaviour.

Nigel, who lives in neighbouring Mullen Close, said: "I have never known [crime] to be this bad. 

"I feel very strongly about this, it's happening every day.

"It makes shopping very stressful. 

"It makes me want to not shop here, I have started using the other shop more now. 

"The Co-op needs to get a security guard to stop this from happening. 

"The shoplifters come in here and they fill up the baskets and then they run out without paying.

"It's not good for the staff to have to worry about all this."

A spokesperson from the Co-op said: "The safety and security of our colleagues and customers is a priority and while, unfortunately, retail crime affects all retailers, Co-op works closely with the police and uses a wide range of measures across our stores to deter any criminal behaviour.

"This includes the latest CCTV; covert and non-covert guarding and security; communication headsets for all frontline colleagues and, body-worn cameras which – at the touch of a button - can send real-time audio and visual footage to our security centre to help stop any incidents from escalating and, assist with prosecutions.”