SHOPKEEPERS are being urged to join the fight against shoplifters and anti-social behaviour in Darlington town centre.

Shopwatch provides a radio link between shops, security, police and the town centre CCTV system, meaning intelligence can be shared between all the parties involved.

Participating shops use the radios to alert each other about prolific shop lifters, who are identifiable by photos distributed by the police.

The CCTV team, based at Town Hall, are able to track individuals throughout the town centre, and contact other shopkeepers and the police if necessary.

The scheme already has 43 traders on its books, but will be relaunched on Monday June 29 in an effort to get more to join up.

Inspector Steve Steen of Darlington Police takes part in regular meetings with other members of Shopwatch.

He said: "Darlington hasn't got a massive crime problem, it isn't a case of it being a lawless town, but with help from shops and town centre traders we can stop crime from happening."

Insp Steen described a recent Shopwatch success in thwarting a group of travelling criminals.

The group had been spotted elsewhere in the region carrying out a confusion scam, where shopkeepers are confused into handing over the wrong change.

But through the Shopwatch mechanism, the gang were spotted early and members were quickly informed of their presence in the town.

Insp Steen added: "They had come to Darlington to hit us, but we were able to identify them early and forewarn shop keepers."

Jennifer Kirby, chair of Shopwatch and owner of 54 Degrees North, an outdoor clothing shop in Skinnergate, said: "I wouldn't be without my radio, it keeps us in touch with the rest of the town."

Mrs Kirby urged others to join the organisation. "It's safety in numbers," she added. "But we need smaller independent shops to join, and more out off town centre."

The relaunch event takes place at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington, from 1.45pm on June 29.

Speaking at the event will be assistant chief constable of Durham Police, Michael Banks, as well as representatives from Darlington Borough Council and a member of the CCTV team.

For more information call Mrs Kirby on 01325-463931.