TRADERS in the centre of Ipswich today said they are reaching the end of their tether after yet another spate of burglaries in the town.Thieves have targeted businesses in the St Nicholas Street area and broke in to three premises in one night.

TRADERS in the centre of Ipswich today said they are reaching the end of their tether after yet another spate of burglaries in the town.

Thieves have targeted businesses in the St Nicholas Street area and broke in to three premises in one night.

The general feeling among those affected by this latest crime is that those responsible are feeding their drug habit.

The group fears the crime wave will continue unless police patrols are stepped up and that CCTV is introduced, something they have been asking for, for a long time.

Mike Brundle, 56, owner of Abbey Blinds, which was one of the businesses targeted early yesterday says his patience is being severely tested.

"All of us traders are sick to death with the continuous break-ins – it's a nightmare.

"I don't think it's too much to ask for CCTV to cover the street. In fact the feeling is that we are being targeted because there are cameras elsewhere.

"There is a real problem around here which is a shame as it's a nice street, but is being ruined and let down by a small group."

To gain entry to the premises, the offenders completely demolished an ancient medieval door and stole computer equipment and a cash box.

"The 200-year-old door was smashed in. It survived two world wars but it could not withstand one thug."

Also targeted that same evening was the Sweet Shop, which is its second break-in in as many weeks, and an array of goods including cigarettes, video tapes, chocolate and coffee were taken.

Its owner, Toy Umit Dogukan, said: "I am a very angry and upset. Not only am I losing stock and money but it is also the inconvenience and disruption it's causing.

"It my second burglary in two weeks and each one has cost me more than £1,500 – I've had enough."

Other premises in the area also spoke of countless other times they have had break-ins.

A police spokeswoman said: "Both foot and car patrols in St Nicholas Street and other town centre streets are carried out on a regular basis and taken very seriously.

"We would like to hear from anybody who has information relating to this incident to contact Ipswich police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."