SHOPLIFTERS and hooligans intent on preying on shops in Leigh this Christmas are in for a nasty shock.

For they could find themselves swiftly scooped into the long arms of the law as shopkeepers and police join forces to keep riff-raff out of town.

It is part of a major incentive put forward by the Leigh Shopwatch Group who are determined to make it safer shopping for their visitors this year.

And to show their determination, group members have been issued with photo albums by Leigh Police showing 'mug shots' of known offenders who have been convicted of crimes in the area.

It means instant identification of known wrongdoers as they try traditional methods of moving from shop to shop, often in gangs.

The albums are backed up by CCtv cameras in the centre of Leigh which are active and able to pinpoint potential troublemakers.

Leigh Shopwatch has the full backing of Supt. Malcolm Howells, Head of Leigh Police, who turned out on Tuesday morning to launch the enhanced scheme which has seen membership increase by over 400%.

He has also co-operated in introducing the Leigh retail Radio Link to his patch which provides instant communications with all members, including Pc Steve Gaskell, the town centre area constable.

Supt Howells commented: "I fully back this scheme and we are confident that by working together we can get the message across to thieves that Leigh is NOT the place to be this Christmas.

"We are determined to do everything we can to stop criminals from spoiling Christmas for shopkeepers and shoppers alike and this co-operation with Shopwatch goes a long way towards that, and I'm positive it will have an effect."

And Susan Canning, Chairperson of the Leigh Shopwatch committee, (picture in foreground, with Carol Bate) added: "I feel that we are at last as a retail group beginning to make a difference in Leigh with regard to crime in general.

"Instead of being isolated, I personally am of the opinion that we are now starting to tackle issues together. The Retail Radio Link, I am sure, will make a big impact on reducing crime in the town."

Constable Steve Gaskell added: "Obviously not only will the radios assist the retailers, but I am sure that we as the police will find it a great benefit.

"Instant information not only highlights possible suspects but also helps to identify and locate our known local criminals, which will hopefully make the town centre of Leigh a place they would rather not frequent."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.