Shopkeepers are calling for a CCTV camera to curb the onslaught of crime and disorder.

Businesses in Hangleton Road, The Parade and Queens Parade, Hove, have been subjected to ram-raids, shop-lifting, criminal damage and antisocial behaviour over the past couple of years and owners have had enough.

Some have told The Argus a CCTV camera would act as a deterrent and assist the over-stretched police force in tracing suspects.

Garry Sanders, who runs G&D Sanders Pet Shop, in The Parade, has had two trailers stolen, windows smashed at night and been subjected to verbal abuse.

He said: "The problems are never-ending. It's always been a rough area and although it's not been as bad recently, it's still terrible up here."

Allegations include drug-taking and dealing in the nearby public toilets and in the Alldays car park. The Co-op has a security guard to stop shop-lifting.

Branch manager John Young of Unwin's off-licence, in Queens Parade, had to replace the whole of the shop front when ram-raiders smashed through about 18 months ago.

He has been the victim of three armed robberies, the last carried out by a girl with a knife about a year ago.

Councillor Dawn Barnett handed a petition and more than 25 letters from local businesses calling for CCTV to Brighton and Hove City Council's environment committee meeting last week.

A letter supporting her from Sergeant Richard Delacour, who supervises Police Community Support Officers, was included.

Friday, September 16, 2005