THERE was crime and disorder at the latest meeting of Bury Business Club.

But the police didn't require to be summoned because they were already there.

For crime and its effects on the business community were the twin themes of the club's crime night at Bury police divisional headquarters.

And there were plenty of tips from security experts among club members, as well as the presenters, about effective preventive measures to reduce the risks and impact for potential business targets.

Addressing the guests was police crime reduction adviser Andy Taylor and topics raised included security and alarm systems, Business Watch and the highly successful Business Security Initiative programme which provides funding towards the implementation of security measures.

Derek Burke surveyed the statutory duties of the Greater Manchester Police Authority and of the local authority in relation to ensuring effective and efficient policing and stressed the need for partnership with the local community, including the business community.

Physical security systems came to the fore of the discussion again when Mike McNulty of DTE Insurance Brokers talked about the insurance aspects of crime and the protection of business premises.

The meeting again welcomed a number of new members who contributed to some lively discussion and a diverse spread of "spotlight on member" presentations, as well as the customary networking opportunities.

The next meeting of the Bury Business Club will continue the "security" theme with a behind-the scenes look at the Mill Gate Shopping Centre on Thursday April 25.

And in May, the organisation will host an "Ask the Expert" panel for business-related questions on a wide range of topics.

Details are available from Kay Gregson at Bolton and Bury Chamber, tel: 01204 374668 or via the Chamber website www.chamberhelp.co.uk/netwking/burybusiness.htm.