A SUSPECTED burglar has been arrested after a string of businesses were targeted after Tier Four closure took effect in a city centre.

Many businesses closed with the introduction of new tougher restrictions in the North-East on Wednesday evening.

But just hours after the doors of those premises closed, an intruder was taking the opportunity to try to force his way in.

Overnight on Wednesday into Thursday, a pub, beauty salon and two newsagents were targeted n Newcastle city centre.

Those responsible were unable to steal anything of substantial value but the raids did cause damage to the businesses affected.

A 44-year-old man was arrested by Northumbria Police inside one of the premises after officers were swiftly deployed to the scene.

He spent New Year’s Eve in a custody cell and today Neighbourhood Inspector Karen Madge pledged that police would continue to keep businesses safe.

“This is a very difficult time for everybody and we are aware our business community has taken a major hit during the pandemic.

“The move into Tier Four has meant many of those premises in the city centre have been forced to close their doors.

“But we want to reassure you that we will continue to patrol the streets of Newcastle to deter opportunistic thieves targeting our businesses.

“In this particular investigation a suspect was arrested a suspect at the scene after immediately deploying officers to the scene.

“Burglary is a despicable crime and we will continue to respond to reports and detain suspects throughout this pandemic.”

The arrested man, Darren Redpath, of no fixed address, was charged in relation with two of the burglaries and appeared before magistrates sitting at Newcastle Crown Court on New Year’s Day.

He was remanded in custody to appear back before the crown court on January 29 but remains under investigation for two of the other burglary offences.

Anyone who wants to report an incident to police can do so online at the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101.