CRIME doesn't pay - unless you are in the business of keeping out criminals.

Local authorities, housing associations and construction companies are counting the cost of break-ins, vandalism and arson in empty houses.

But a Hyndburn security firm is cashing in and creating new jobs.

Security Closures manufactures, leases and installs steel window and door screens to secure vacant properties before they are re-let.

The firm has taken on 16 staff since it was set up in January last year by owner and managing director Maurice Brooks, and sales manager Simon Broadbent.

And it forecasts doubling the workforce by the end of 1996.

Currently around 300 houses within the North West are protected by their galvanised screens.

The window screens and expanding steel door can be tailored and fastened to fit any size or shape of opening, and perforations allow in light for anyone working inside, even when the power is off.

"Plywood is easily ripped off. Stronger security stops vandals breaking in and destroying the refurbishment taking place," said Mr Broadbent.

The company, whose head office and distribution centre is in Bridge Street, Church, got a DTI grant for research and development.

It has applied for patents on its screen and door systems, manufactured under licence by a Glasgow firm and Chadfort Engineering at Blackburn, with E Reg Coatings at Barrowford adding a tough finish which makes graffiti easier to remove.

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