SHOPKEEPERS are calling for action to halt thefts and vandalism they say could force them to quit trading.

Businesses in Carrville High Street, near Durham City, claim shops and homes are constantly being targeted by thugs and burglars.

Some retailers are considering closing up for good if the situation does not improve. They want Durham City Council to allow them to put shutters on their shop windows.

Traders also want security cameras to be installed in the street to deter the criminals.

Kate Atkinson, owner of Bears and Crafts, said she may shut after her window was kicked in for the second Christmas running.

She added: "It's appalling around here and the businesses are suffering. They attempted to get into my shop two weeks ago through a side window, but didn't, then this Saturday totally trashed my front window before they were disturbed and ran off.

"I am seriously thinking about closing up, we can't keep going on like this.

"In the town centre they have got cameras and police patrolling all the time, but in your local high street you have absolutely nothing."

Butcher David Jones, who has run A&D Jones, Butchers, for 18 years, said: "This Christmas I am going to have to sleep in the back shop because I daren't leave the stock in the shop overnight.

"We have been burgled and the window has been smashed. The past 12 months in this street have been horrific."

Dorothy Whale, of nearby Class Clothes, which has been attacked four times in seven years, said: "You feel like packing in when you pay hundreds of pounds to replace property because of some toe-rag."

Chief Inspector Jamie McAloon, of Durham Police, said: "We sympathise with traders who have suffered these incidents of criminal damage, but I must stress the crime rate for that area is not especially high.

"There is a dedicated beat officer for the area, who I know is well regarded by residents and traders."

A spokeswoman for Durham City Council said traders could fit shutters to their shops, preferably on the inside of windows.

"What we would ask the traders in Carrville High Street is come and talk to us," she added.