Traders unite to fight crime (From Warrington Guardian)

Traders unite to fight crime

TRADERS in Knutsford met last night to discuss setting up a new hi-tech security system to guard against shoplifters.

Bosses from more than 20 businesses were expected to attend the meeting at the Methodist Church.

"If they can get the system going it could hopefully help to cut town centre crime," said Sgt Kevin Fryer.

"When you add it on to our efforts and the CCTV it could make a difference."

Scot-free

Last month Macclesfield Borough Council asked businesses to protect Knutsford town centre by renting radios.

The new shopwatch security system would link shopkeepers, police and CCTV operators using police handsets.

The borough council had been concerned that too few traders were interested in the scheme, which has also been used in Macclesfield and Wilmslow. But yesterday (Tuesday) as the Guardian went to press Sgt Fryer said shopkeepers and landlords would attend the meeting.

"There could be up to 23 shops and some pubs there tonight," he said.

Earlier this month Dee Communications, which would supply the radios, warned that criminals in Knutsford could be getting away scot-free.

Bosses said without handsets the town's traders were ill equipped to alert each other because they did not have a direct link to the CCTV control room in Macclesfield.

The radio system would cost shops about £240 each a year.

Traders could use the handsets to report problems such as counterfeit money, stolen credit cards, pick-pockets and drunks.

"On our own we have not got enough eyes to see everything," said Sgt Fryer.

"This way everyone has a real part to play in cutting crime."

To contact CCTV operators about shopwatch or town centre crime call 01625 504778.