A man has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and causing criminal damage after high street businesses were impacted.

At about 3am today (July 9) the Metropolitan Police were called to High Street, Hornchurch to reports a man had smashed the window of a restaurant.

The force subsequently arrested a 54-year-old man on suspicion of burglary and causing criminal damage.

The Recorder spoke to cafe and restaurant owners in the town centre last week who bemoaned falling victim to burglaries.

One accused police of a belated response to their calls, alleging a first break-in as far back as May 2 this year.

RELATED NEWS: Hornchurch High Street businesses targeted in break-ins

But today an arrest has been made.

"He has since been questioned regarding other burglaries," police added. "Thank you to the member of the public who reported this."

The force said last week that officers were making "fast enquiries" into several burglaries in Hornchurch High Street.

Insp Mark Connolly, Hornchurch police lead, said: "We understand how this impacts our local businesses, not just as a financial loss, but emotional wellbeing and sense of security. 

"I was on patrol with my team looking at commercial crime trends within Hornchurch High Street and how we can improve safety for residents and reduce crime for businesses," he added.

The investigation continues and other businesses have been encouraged to report similar crimes.

Anyone with information about offences being committed is asked to call police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.