A NEW security alert system has been launched by Harrogate Chamber of Trade and Commerce in conjunction with North Yorkshire Police.

The latest information on local business-related crime problems will be sent by email to all member businesses. Emailed security alerts will be compiled by the chamber, based on intelligence from the North Yorkshire Police western area watch co-ordinator, PC John McPartlan.

Entitled Business Watch, the new scheme is modelled on the successful Pub Watch, Farm Watch and Neighbourhood Watch schemes which operate through the Ringmaster telephone system.

Instead of using these automated telephone systems, the new Business Watch alerts will be instantly circulated by e-mail, offering an easily printed record of crime problems for reference by Harrogate business management and staff.

Businesses taking part will be supplied with a new self-adhesive window sticker to display on their doors or windows, similar to the Neighbourhood Watch signs.

Brian Dunsby, the chamber's chief executive, devised the scheme. He said: "This new e-mail alert will draw attention to recent criminal activities so that local businesses can take the necessary precautions."

First of the Business Watch security alerts covers topics such as tradesmen's vehicle theft; theft of charity collection boxes; 4x4 vehicle thefts and doorstep trading.

Mr Dunsby said: "The new Business Watch sign displayed on business premises will discourage criminals by showing that the management and staff are alert to their activities".

PC McPartlan described the scheme as "a good initiative which raises awareness in the fight against crime."

Free sample copies of first Business Watch security alert can be obtained by sending a stamped self-addressed DL size envelope to Harrogate Chamber of Trade & Commerce, PO Box 8, Harrogate HG2 8XB.

Updated: 09:24 Tuesday, March 25, 2003