BUSINESSES in Hoole now have a new tool against shoplifters, thanks to partnership work from Cheshire Police.

The area’s local PCSO Keith Bartlett, CCTV operators and local businesses now have access to Shopwatch city link radios.

The radios can be used to warn businesses about any on going incidents in the area such as shoplifting.

CCTV operators will have a camera in Hoole and access to the radio to monitor and record and incidents for evidence.

PCSO Keith Bartlett said: “Having the radio link with the shops and CCTV operators will make it easier for me to be in the right place at the right time, shops and CCTV operators will be able to contact me directly about any suspicious behaviour.

“The aim of this scheme is to reduce shoplifiting in Hoole by not only by catching those responsible, but also deterring anyone who plans to shoplift from coming into Hoole.”

For more information or to contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team call 0845 458 6375 or email chester.outer.npt@cheshire.pnn.police.uk.