Two men have been charged over alleged shoplifting offences near Newcastle yesterday.

About 4.15pm (Sunday 31 January 2016), the pair allegedly entered a hardware store on Griffith Street, Heatherbrae, and stole a number of items.

Officers from Port Stephens Local Area Command attended and located two men – aged 21 and 46 – in the car park of the store.

Police searched the men and a vehicle, where it’s alleged they located several stolen power tools and other items.

The men were arrested and taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station.

The 21-year-old was charged with three counts of larceny and possess housebreaking implements.

The 46-year-old charged with one count of larceny.

Both men were refused bail to appear at Raymond Terrace Local Court today (Monday 1 February 2016).

Investigations are continuing.