Shops, pubs, clubs and restaurants in Watford town centre are to share a radio system that links them directly to police.

Watford Business Against Crime (WBAC), which represents shops open during the day, operates a two-way radio system that allows businesses to instantly communicate with the police, town centre CCTV controllers and each other.

Now that network will include members of Watford Pubwatch.

Members of the scheme, which includes many of the town centre's late-night venues, currently has its own radio system.

However, by merging the two networks, it is hoped information can be more easily shared in the battle to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime.

Pauline O’Brien, who runs WBAC and will manage the joint radio scheme, said: “WBAC has always had a really good radio system so it made sense for Pubwatch to join our scheme.

“The Town Centre CCTV Unit has always been incredibly supportive to both WBAC and Pubwatch by monitoring the radios and assisting businesses when an incident occurs.

“While there were two separate radio systems, there were small areas of vulnerability, such as when shops were open for late night shopping, and CCTV would only be able to monitor the Pubwatch radio system. Similarly, during the day, CCTV would be using the WBAC radio system which meant that the pubs that were open would be unable to communicate via the radios with CCTV.

“Now, we’ve completed a seamless transition to join the schemes and everyone can communicate and request assistance where necessary 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Any shops or other businesses in Watford that want to find out more about Watford Business Against Crime should telephone Pauline O'Brien on 01923 802304.