An area blighted by crime has been awarded £80,000 to improve shop security.

The Home Office last month handed £750,000 to secure shops in King's Road, St Leonards.

But, due to prudent use of the cash, £80,000 is still available, which council bosses have persuaded the Home Office to let them use in Bohemia Road.

The Argus told last month how Dorothy Wood, 75, had vowed to give up the newsagents she had run in Bohemia Road for 20 years after the third robbery in 12 months.

During one robbery, Mrs Wood had petrol poured over her before a robber threatened to flick a lighter on her.

Police will this week carry out security surveys on all the shops in Bohemia Road to advise on the best way of protection.

Councillor Trevor Webb, cabinet member responsible for Community Safety, said: "We've been able to secure more premises than we had originally hoped to in Kings Road.

"By being vigilant with the money, we have been able to make it go further.

"We have negotiated with the Home Office to retain the money and spend it on improving security in another important street in the town."

A meeting between the Council, police and traders had already been arranged to discuss concerns prior to the news of the money being made available.

Inspector Mike Fagan said: "I believe this will go a long way in addressing concerns of traders in that area."