MANUFACTURING companies in Bury can get a cash boost to fight crime.

The Business Security Initiative (BSI), pioneered in Radcliffe last year, has been extended borough-wide.

And the scheme has been launched amid worrying statistics which graphically illustrate just how vulnerable companies are to theft, damage and other crimes.

A survey of 596 Bury firms disclosed that three quarters of businesses experienced crime in the previous year.

And nine per cent of the businesses questioned had fallen victim to 10 or more key crimes.

But Bury manufacturing businesses will be able to bite back under BSI, operated by Bury Council in partnership with Greater Manchester Police. Thanks to Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) funding, individual companies can obtain up to 50 per cent of the total cost of security upgrades to a maximum contribution of £2,500.

Similarly, group applications which cover initiatives such as closed circuit television (CCTV) will be eligible for a maximum of 75 per cent of the total cost, up to £7,500.

The funding covers everything from security cameras, locks and bolts for doors and windows to shutters and grilles as well as security lighting systems and upgrading alarms.

More than 60 representatives from the borough's business community attended the launch of the BSI at the Bolholt Hotel, Bury.

Bury Council deputy leader and joint SRB3 programme chairman, Councillor John Byrne said: "Crime is something that preys on people's minds and the business community is no different."

Commenting on the impact of incidents, Coun Byrne continued: "Criminal damage at business sites and premises can mean goods replacement costs, heavy cleaning and repair bills."

Businesses wishing to find out more about the scheme should contact Jade McCann on 253 6159.