Staff theft costs small firms £112m

Light-fingered staff have cost small businesses more than £112million in the past three years - by helping themselves to everything from petty cash to office equipment.

One in seven firms have suffered from staff theft, according to a report by insurance giant Eagle Star.

The amounts, though only averaging £1,000 a year, not only affect the bottom line but also make bosses distrust employees.

Plumbers are the worst hit - one in six have seen equipment or money disappear - followed by convenience stores and newsagents.