SHOPKEEPERS in Brockley will join Lewisham police this spring in a walkie-talkie war on shoplifters.

Using a £45,000 windfall from the Home Office to deal with shop crime, Lewisham Council will begin phase one of its crime-busting initiative in the Stondon Park area.

Community PC Gary Wade will be linked by walkie-talkie to all shop-owners in the parade, so they can instantly alert him and other traders if they notice a problem.

He explained: "I've lived and worked in Brockley for five years and it is community whose needs are often forgotten about. I've also put in a bid for CCTV cameras, which is currently being processed."

"In the meantime, these radios will be a great help in giving a greater sense of security to shopkeepers and the wider community."

Buisinesses in the area are optimistic about the scheme.