ALMOST 100 town centre shops in Blackburn are now in contact with each other via a special radio system in a bid to cut crime.

Blackburn Business Against Crime was recently re-launched at a special event in a bid to attract more members.

So far more than 80 town centre shops are in contact with each other, the police and CCTV via a dedicated radio system, thanks to the scheme which has been running for several years.

Members will share information on known shoplifters, including photographs of those convicted in court, and prolific shoplifters can be banned from all shops in the scheme.

The scheme has been labelled groundbreaking' by the council, and information collected by Blackburn Business Against Crime could even be used to pursue anti social behaviour orders (ASBOs).

Now Coun Andy Kay, chair of the community safety partnership said he hopes more new members will sign up.

He said: "The re-launch gives us an opportunity to market the benefits to town centre retailers who are not already members. We will also be announcing dates for dedicated training sessions for shop staff.

"As part of the upgrading of the scheme a new communications link between the shops and CCTV operators has been put in place."

And Sergeant Rachel Baines, town centre sergeant for Blackburn, said: "This is an incentive aimed at reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

"This has proved successful over recent years and it is hoped that the re-launch will help develop and progress the scheme with the cooperation of the Town Centre partners.

"The Businesses which join the scheme can work together sharing information and ensure that those who commit offences are excluded from member premises."

Any town centre premises wishing to join the scheme can contact 01254 353576.