Traders have joined forces to curb shoplifters

The initiative, which involves shops grouping together, has been running since January last year.

The last three months have seen a dramatic cut of 52% in shoplifting offences.

Aylesbury Retailers Against Crime was set up following a spate of shoplifting in stores in the area.

A group of 22 shops joined forces to help Thames Valley Police compile evidence to convict persistent offenders.

Overall results show that during the past year offences are down by almost 20%.

The initiative has received recognition from the Queen who presented the traders with the national Safer Shopping Award during a visit to the town.

The shops involved say the scheme has saved them around 43% in lost stock.