A Shopwatch scheme has been launched in Bingley to crack down on thieves.

Retailers have been trained to react quickly and effectively if they suspect a shoplifter is in their midst. The police hope the scheme will help catch and prosecute criminals and deter would-be thieves.

Inspector David Drucquer said the town had an ongoing problem with shoplifting.

He said: "It's not a big problem, it's not like Keighley or Bradford, but it is persistent with people being arrested for shoplifting every week.

"And the criminals are not always local - they travel into Bingley, commit crime and leave the area. We are determined to clamp down on this problem as it is costly for shopkeepers and therefore bad for Bingley."

PC Graham Moore, of Bingley Police, contacted all the town centre traders to get them involved in setting up the scheme.

Insp Drucquer added: "The response has been magnificent. Everybody wanted to get involved. We have now had an introductory meeting and a training session during which retailers were given forms to fill out if they see someone acting suspiciously so they can give the best possible description to the police."

He said they had also set up a "ring round'' system with each shopkeeper being given no more than three telephone numbers so the message can be passed on quickly and effectively.

"We believe it would only take ten minutes for every trader in the town to be notified of a colleague's suspicions," he said.

Shoplifters will also be deterred by posters displayed at participating shops warning thieves that they are 'Now entering premises protected by Bingley Shopwatch'.

Annette Billadeau, manager of Manor Grove, in Main Street, said: "Thieves cost retailers millions of pounds a year. We are delighted to be part of a scheme which will make Bingley an even better place to shop. Shopwatch sends a clear message to would-be thieves - stay away!"

Other traders have welcomed the scheme too. Andrew Robertshaw, of Outer Limits, said he would be backing it while Stephen Hemming, manager of Martin's newsagents in Myrtle Walk precinct, added: "I have signed up to it. I think it's a good idea.''

And Bingley town centre manager David Dinsey said: "I believe Bingley Shopwatch is an excellent scheme and will be an effective deterrent to would-be shoplifters and sends a very clear message that it will not be tolerated in Bingley.''

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