SHOPKEEPERS in Brentwood will get upgraded radio links in the latest bid to beat thieves.

The Town Link scheme allows retailers to easily talk with other shops, the council, police and CCTV operators, via handheld radios, so information can be exchanged to help prevent crime, and track down crooks.

A second aerial will be installed in the town to increase and improve coverage, and upgraded radios will then be dished out to retailers.

Businesses pay a fee to the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, which manages the service, to be part of the scheme.

Councillor David Kendall, who chairs the business and town centre committee, said the scheme was a vital tool in the fight against crime, especially in the run-up to Christmas.

He said: “It’s been going for a few years now and been a real success, and they’ve been trying to expand it.

“It has helped apprehend a number of people, particularly those who are caught shoplifting. It’s a very important part of trying to keep the High Street a safe place for people work and shop there.”

A chamber spokesman said the Baytree Centre had recently complained of a poor reception.

She said: “We were concerned and agreed to pay for a second aerial to be installed and another Ofcom radio licence. This will ensure better reception and coverage for all Town Link users.”