And their fears over a crime rise over the next few months has prompted the body to issue a timely alert to all town retailers in relation to retail theft
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Development Manager, Trevor Parker, explained that during any economic downturn statistics will show quite dramatic potential increases in retail crime.

Police Commander for the area, Barbara Gray, shares this concern with BRAC and confirmed that businesspeople need to be vigilant.

"Retailers need to be especially alert in relation to this problem over the coming months and the Police will be working closely with BRAC to help minimize losses to the retail sector," she said.
Trevor has also issued the following advice that will help combat retail theft:

• If you are not already a member of the Radio Link Scheme now is the time to join. - Radio Link is one of the most cost effective measures you can take to deter and detect retail crime. It is essential to know what is going on around you including counterfeit money, cloned credit cards, scams and current theft methods.

• Ensure that your security tag scanners at the door are operational.

• The biggest deterrent to theft is having well trained and alert staff. Training is available on anti theft and using the radio link. This is free to all members of the radio link scheme and is especially important coming up to the Christmas period.

• Report anything even slightly suspicious to the police is essential. This can be done easily and quickly via the radio link as the Town Beat Officers all carry the system. If you are not a radio link member contact the Police by phone.

For anyone who would like more information on how to combat retail theft, BRAC can be contacted through the Development Manager, Trevor Parker, at 25646050.