Tune In

Littlehampton Shopwatch, linking together more than 30 businesses through its own radio channel, has achieved a dramatic cut in thefts from shops since it first went onto the airwaves around six years ago.

Now the network is being upgraded to make messages and alerts easier to hear, and extend the coverage to three kilometres from the town centre.

A new base station has been set up, high above the shopping centre, to boost the signal strength and overcome gaps in the coverage of the current system.

Sue Walker, chairman of Shopwatch and manager of Dorothy Perkins, Littlehampton, said the new network would build on the success of the scheme so far.

"We have been able to reunite lost children and even found a lost dog. But the main benefit is moving on known shoplifters. They hate the system. There has been a dramatic reduction in stock loss in shops in the town since we have had it.

"Shopwatch also provides extra security for our customers. One lady came in and said she felt so much safer because of our radios."

It's hoped that up to 40 town centre traders will have the new VHF radios, which cost 190 plus VAT, or can be rented for 5 a week. Messages can be quickly sent round other shops alerting them to suspected thieves, and police officers on duty in the town centre also have access to one of the radios.

There is also a panic button on the radios, and four co-ordinators have special radios with a display screen showing which members of the scheme are broadcasting.

Any trader wanting to purchase or rent a radio should telephone Sue on 01903 713394.

Funding for the new system has been given by Arun District Council, Sussex Police, the Home Office, the Town Centre Action Group, Littlehampton Traders' Partnership, STS Communica-tions, Quality Textiles, David O. Jones, Car Bits, Laura-May's Cafe, Water Management, Ricara, Arcadia Plc, Garretts and Ockendens.