BUSINESSES in the town centre have joined forces to fight crime.

A new scheme, launched on Tuesday, November 15, at TJ Hughes in Watford, aims to encourage businesses to share resources and information to create a safer trading environment.

The Watford Business Against Crime initiative is based on similar models already operating throughout the country.

Heather Britton, Watford's town centre manager, will act as business crime manager in the scheme.

She said: "We have large retailers such as TJ Hughes and John Lewis on board, as well as smaller shops.

"Businesses will be able to share information from police and each othe about persistent offenders. This means even if a new business opens, it will be able to access relevant crime information."

Businesses that join the scheme can also opt to be part of a radio link project.

The Harlequin shopping centre, which has extensive CCTV coverage, is taking part in the radio link scheme. The partnership is non-profit making, although there is an annual membership fee which varies depending on whether firms decide to participate in the radio link scheme.

For more information telephone Ms Britton on 01923 278397.