A Shop Watch radio scheme launched in Kirkby by Ashfield District Council and Nottinghamshire Police is attracting support from retailers.

They have been given new radio systems that link directly to a CCTV control room at police headquarters and can be used to warn other shops in the initiative of an individual or group causing trouble.

Recently Kirkby businesses have also received CCTV, lighting, and signage as part of measures to tackle anti-social behaviour and environmental crime across Kirby town centre and on the Coxmoor estate.

Funded by the Home Office Safer Streets initiative, the scheme will be extended to Sutton.

Jody Wyld, owner of Swit Swoo Fashion Boutique High Street, Kirkby, said: “We are pleased to receive these radios; they have already been of huge benefit to local businesses in the area.

“It’s going to improve safety in Kirkby, help protect staff, and provide us with the means of reporting issues quicky to both the police and council’’.

Antonio Taylor, the council’s community safety manager, added: “It is already proving to be beneficial for local businesses, with information being shared promptly and efficiently between town centre businesses, CCTV officers, and police.”