A NEW crime-busting initiative aimed at reducing shop crime was launched in Romsey this week.

Shopwatch - an updated version of Romsey Town Radio Link - hit the shops on Monday.

Sergeant Barbara Hardcastle, who introduced the highly successful Pubwatch scheme earlier this year, is behind the latest move to cut crime. Traders will use walkie-talkies to tip each other off when suspected shoplifters are on the prowl. Around 30 retailers have already signed up to the scheme .

Sgt Hardcastle said antisocial behaviour orders could be issued against people who persistently shoplift or cause trouble at retail premises.

"Shops are being given incident sheets to fill in," she said.

"Shopwatch is the result of shopkeepers approaching the police. They liked the success of Pubwatch and wanted to do something too. It's not just radios being used but an improved communications system between shopkeepers and the police," said the sergeant.

Stickers and posters will be displayed in all shops taking part.

Town centre manager Christine Cole said she hoped more outlets would join the scheme.

"Traders will be able to put messages out on the radios if they have got problems," said Christine. "They will also be useful if a child gets lost in the town and for the personal safety of staff working in small businesses. If they suspect a shoplifter they can alert each other over the radio. I think with the police and Waitrose's support this puts us in good stead for a very successful scheme. Andover, Salisbury, Winchester and Southampton all have similar schemes," said Christine.

Each radio costs between £225 and £400.

Christine added: "Hopefully we will be able to get a grant from Hampshire Police Authority to help with the costs."

Amongst the shops taking part in Shopwatch are Made Marion, Waitrose, WH Smith, Woolworths, Bradbeers, New Look, Paperchain, Superdrug, Boots, SportsMann, Leisure Lighting, Roundabout and Age of Elegance.

More police officers will be deployed on foot patrols in the town centre shopping area. And police plan to contact parents of juveniles involved in trouble.

Borough parking officials and operators of the town's CCTV system are also being drafted in to help reduce shop crime.