A NEW scheme to clampdown on shoplifters is proving a success in Guisborough.

Shoplink has resulted in a number of arrests in the first couple of months of going live.

The system involves stores around the town receiving radio equipment which is used to make shops aware of any suspicious incidents or cases of shoplifting.

The scheme means retailers can pass on or receive instant descriptions of shoplifters and their direction of travel, and police can also pick up these radio messages and respond quickly to any incidents.

Scheme Manager Natasha Mitchell, who also manages Redcar Businesses Against Crime, said: "This is a great way for everyone to work together to deal with the perennial problem of shoplifting.

"We also have an exclusion scheme which means anyone who has been violent towards shop staff or who is a prolific thief can be banned from those Shoplink members for a year. If they break this ban, then they could be banned for up to 36 months."

So far 14 shops have joined the scheme and PCSO for Guisborough, Ali Coaker said: "The scheme is a very effective tool in the fight against crime. It sends out a clear message that stealing from our town's stores simply will not be tolerated."

The scheme has resulted in a number of arrests including a 41-year-old man on suspicion of stealing alcohol from Morrisons and a well-known prolific 33-year-old female shoplifter, who travelled into Guisborough, being ordered to leave the town.