Business link-up aims to cut crime

A total of 24 firms in the city's Beverley ward have signed up to a business watch scheme, which pools information among retailers, police and the local authority.

They will report suspicious activity or potential problems from known troublemakers.

The group will hold regular meetings and get updates on the project through a newsletter.

Andy Fawcett, manager at the Sainsbury's Local store in Beverley Road, said: "As a business community it is important that we work with police and residents to tackle issues like shop theft and anti-social behaviour.

"Together with other business I feel we can make a real difference in the area making the local shops and businesses nicer places to work for staff and even better places for members of the public to shop."

Northern Neighbourhood Policing Team support officer Wayne Mellors said the innovative partnership would help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour around shopping areas and businesses.

He added: "This is a powerful tool to help out business and shops in Beverley ward."