BUTCHER Big John Herbert reckons he's got a right result...

For the shopping zone where he trades is to benefit from a major security upgrade just three weeks after an exclusive St Helens Star front page story exposed shopkeepers' misery at having to endure vandalism and racist abuse from louts.

Chain Lane shopping precinct will be given a substantial grant to improve security at the site from St Helens Council.

Improvements will include CCTV cameras, a general clean up of the area, and removal of graffiti.

The Star understands that the improvements could also involve the removal of the precinct's canopy roof, under which gangs of youths gather after dark and perimeter fencing around the precinct could be erected.

Security cameras may also be installed inside The Raj takeaway, where the Asian owners and staff have faced racial abuse from children as young as 11.

Our story reported how two shopkeepers had called for more protection at their premises at Chain Lane.

An urgent meeting followed between Blackbrook Ward councillors, police, traders, and representatives from St Helens Council who are responsible for addressing crime and disorder.

Councillor Andy Bowden said: "We looked at the race crime element and will give some additional support to the Asian workers up there. Possibly CCTV could be installed in the shop and we're looking at the removal of the graffiti - there is some really obscene stuff."

He added: "We hope that these new measures will improve the area for both businesses, customers, and local residents."

Butcher 'Big John' Herbert, who demanded more security after his store was vandalised, said proposals stemming from the meeting were promising.

He said: "It looks like we've got a result. One of the things being looked at is putting a fence around the car park. This will give the kids less exits to run out of when police turn up."

The police's crime reduction officer and a security advice officer from Business Crime Direct will be visiting shopkeepers. St Helens Council's Youth Service will also look to increase activities for youngsters in the area.