Havering businesses are being warned to be prepared in case riots spread to the borough.

The Essex FSB (Federation of Small Businesses) has issued advice to its members in Havering to be prepared in case the disturbances that took place across London since Saturday night spread to the borough.

Essex FSB spokesman for Havering, Stephen King, said: “We are not expecting that the disturbances which have been seen to spread to Havering but just in case we are encouraging our members to take some simple steps which should help them protect their business and the staff working there.

“The Metropolitan Police has issued guidelines that businesses may wish to consider when assessing the security of their businesses and we appreciate that not all of the measures will apply to all businesses.”

Advice includes: staffing premises with security guards where possible; making a daily back up if you use computers and taking it off site over night; ensuring staff report any suspicious activity to security or police and regularly checking the building and surrounding areas.

They are also advising to check the CCTV system is working properly; removing high-value goods from window displays overnight; keeping as little cash on the premises as possible; and ensuring shutters are properly secure when not in use.

Mr King added: “We strongly suggest that all crimes should be reported, but it is worth being aware that response and investigation times may be delayed due to the high volume of crimes being reported and the ongoing disruption across London.”

If it is a non-emergency call the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

If you have any information for the police you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.