SHOPKEEPERS in North Yorkshire are being helped to keep their property more secure against thieves and vandals.

Funding by the Home Office will enable measures to be introduced to make shops in High Street, Eastfield, in Scarborough, more secure.

The retailers have suggested many of the measures that will be used to combat theft and vandalism.

These include security shutters for shops not previously covered, alarm systems and closed-circuit television cameras to cover the shops in the High Street.

A total of £10,000 was received from the Home Office last year, and the money has enabled work to begin. A further £20,000 has also been secured.

The retailers have formed the Eastfield Retailers group, which is looking at how it can help improve the appearance of the area to encourage people to use the shops and to feel safer when visiting.

Initial suggestions include improvements to shopfronts, improved access, better signing, landscaping and a shop- watch scheme.

Anne Boyens, crime and disorder reduction officer for the Safer Communities Partnership in Scarborough, said: "There's a lot of energy and ideas being generated by those who work on the High Street, all of whom want to make the area safe for everyone of all ages.

"They are keen to encourage them to visit and use the shops.

"This is hopefully only the beginning, and it is important that this work is not seen in isolation.

"We need to maximise other funding opportunities, including European funding, to improve safety and the quality of life of all residents, retailers and shoppers in the area."

The Safer Communities Partnership is also looking at the possibility of creating a neighbourhood warden scheme in Eastfield, and there are plans for a recreation area for young people.