TRADERS believe their crime-fighting Shop Watch scheme is having a positive impact.
After banning three shoplifters from all 61 shops taking part, no more incidents were reported at the monthly meeting on Monday.
The group formed six months ago and the number of members is rising steadily.
Robin Curry, Business Watch officer said: "Individual traders often feel isolated but now they have come together as a group, sharing information and taking decisions on banning individuals, they have gained strength.
"They are sending out a clear message to criminals - Shop Watch window stickers tell troublemakers they are not welcome and reassures law-abiding citizens."
Inspector Chris Jones added: "It has made an exceptional difference - it's a way of getting information out quickly, getting us good witnesses, alerting the public to crime and helping to gain successful prosecutions."
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