STAFF at one of Wearside's biggest stores are on their guard against thieves after completing specialist security training.

The Crime Free Zone scheme has helped Savacentre staff increase their awareness of security issues through workshops, security checks and tests in the Washington store.

The Crime Free Zone, designed to help the region's firms set up crime-busting systems, offers free training, advice and support from police, expert advisors and businesses.

The scheme's coordinator, Steve Brown, said: "Larger North-East retailers can lose anything up to £18,000 per week, and 85 per cent of all companies can expect to be the victims of crime at some point.

"Staff are just as important to security as locks, cameras and alarms, but it is important to encourage them to bear security in mind in all aspects of their jobs.

"The training will cover a broad range of topics, such as identifying shop thieves and credit card fraud."

Savacentre's loss prevention manager, Gary Wilson, said: "We have enlisted the support of the Crime Free Zone initiative to throw new light on security issues.

"Training from an independent person reinforces the systems we already have in place, and gives our staff a fresh approach to handling situations that may arise."

More than 500 organisations are signed up to the scheme, receiving advice from partners such as Durham Police, the North-East Chamber of Commerce, and Durham Agency Against Crime.

For more information about the scheme, ring Mr Brown on 0191-386 1133.