THIRTY shops in east Cleveland have joined a thumbprint signature scheme to reduce credit card and cheque fraud.

The shops in the Redcar area decided to support the scheme following a successful pilot by Cleveland Police at the Londis store in Windy Hill Lane, Marske. The store has reported no fraudulent cheques or credit cards since the scheme began in August.

Shop customers will not be forced to leave a thumbprint on the shop's copy of a credit card receipt or the back of a cheque, but those who do not wish to participate may be asked to supply an additional form of identification such as or driving licence.

Retailers will not keep the thumbprint signature on their files and the signatures will only be made available to the police in cases of suspected fraud.

Crime prevention officer Gerry McBride, of Cleveland police, said "Everyone but the fraudster wins with this initiative.

"Fraudsters would be ill advised to use participating stores. This creates a safer shopping experience for all."

The ink pad leaves no residue on fingers or clothing.

Redcar Town Centre manager John Partridge said he was delighted with the initial response to the scheme and was hopeful more shops would join.