More than 40 businesses are joining forces to fight crime.

They have all expressed an interest in setting up a Shopwatch scheme in Peacehaven and Telscombe to fight back against shoplifters and troublemakers.

Shopwatch works by members sharing intelligence and alerting one another when suspects are spotted.

The inaugural meeting is being arranged for later this month and those interested will be visited next week by their Police Community Support Officers and handed open invitations.

Sergeant Robin Fuller said: "I am extremely pleased with the response from our business community.

"If we can get the full support of all retail businesses in Peacehaven and Telscombe with the shopwatch scheme then we will be able to identify the thieves and drive them out of our area."

Inspector Herbie Kinvig said: "The launch will reduce further the opportunities for criminals and those who behave in an anti-social manner from being able to disrupt life for the public on the coast.

"Shopwatch has been running successfully in Seaford for eight months and has had a marked effect on criminal behaviour there.

"I anticipate the same result for Peacehaven and Telscombe and urge all businesses to come on board with it."

Anyone interested in joining the scheme should contact PC Steve Dickinson on 0845 6070999 ex 62061.

Tuesday, January 10, 2006