TWO groups dedicated to stopping crime and troublemakers are making sure they are on the same wavelength.

Scarborough Anti-Theft Group and Scarborough Pub Watch both operate radio systems to keep their members in touch and give early warning of approaching shop-lifters or pub troublemakers.

Now the two are to integrate their radio systems so that members of both groups can talk to each other.

Community safety officer PC Mark Roberts said the link-up would bring tremendous benefits.

"Since 1995, the independently-run Scarborough Anti-Theft Group has successfully operated a radio link system in conjunction with security cameras, whereby shopwatch members can use radio links to communicate advance warning of any shoplifters and crime-related incidents in the area," he said.

"At the same time, Pub Watch has also operated a radio system so that its members can warn each other about any troublemakers.

"Now that the two systems are to be linked, shopkeepers will be able to warn pub licensees that shoplifters have been operating and, similarly, licensees can warn shopkeepers that there are troublemakers in town."

He added: "One immediate benefit is that if shoplifters steal some property and then go to a pub to sell the goods or to hide out, the licensees will know who to look out for. There will be no hiding place."