A MEETING between local traders, the police and members of Torfaen Council's regeneration team has been described as a positive first step in the town's fight against crime.

Inspector Paul Jackson, of Pontypool police, met with representatives from seven local businesses and Pontypool town centre manager, Denise Langman, to discuss the issues surrounding a recent spate of break-ins.

Last week the Free Press reported how several independent traders had been targeted by thieves, but, the police ensured, steps are now being put in place to combat the problem.

A spokesman for Pontypool Police said: "It was decided that crime prevention officers will be visiting those affected by crime over the last month, speaking to retailers and offering crime prevention advice. Discussions were also held with regards to establishing closer links with the town's traders and further meetings will be held with Torfaen's Community Safety Partnership in May to discuss the long term plan for the town."

Among the traders who attended the meeting was Andrea Hathaway, owner of Jack in the Box, who has worked in the town for six years. Mrs Hathaway said she found the experience a positive one.

"It was a good group discussion, lots of issues were raised and it's nice that the police are taking notice of what we are saying," she said. Ideas raised to help tackle the problem include introducing a better CCTV system and the possibility of introducing a shop linked crime watch network.

Mark Gregory, owner of Bread of Heaven, in Commercial Street said: "I was encouraged by Insp Jackson's remarks about having a community policeman and a regular police presence, at appropriate times, in the town."

Fellow trader Ann Touhig, manager of Stead and Simpson, said the meeting was a move in the right direction. Bob Cooper, owner of Studio 31, agreed but said a combined effort is needed by local businesses, the council and police.

"I understand police resources are stretched. What I would like to see is the different departments of Torfaen Council, police and traders to work together." Cllr Neil Lewis, executive member for regeneration, said: "A meeting has recently taken place between Gwent Police and the seven retailers who had been targeted with burglaries. This was a constructive first step towards improving community safety in Pontypool Town Centre. A meeting will be arranged shortly to discuss a partnership approach to the issues of safety and security for all users of the town centre."