CHEPSTOW'S retail stores are to be connected to Storenet, in a bid to tackle an increase in shoplifting and protect workers.

Storenet is a radio security system operated by Cardiff based MRS Communications. The two-way system links in with CCTV control, police & town centre managers and also allows retailers to exchange valuable security information.

Andrew Mason, Monmouthshire Council's Project Officer for Anti-social Behaviour, submitted a request to councillors at the Lower Wye Area Committee meeting for a grant of two-and-a-half thousand pounds for the system to be installed covering all the retailers in the town centre.

Earlier in the same meeting, Inspector Walker said shoplifting in Chepstow had seen an increase which seemed to be a national trend.

Cllr Stephanie Dovey said: "In an age of such financial difficulties when it comes to shoplifting it's only going to get worse. We need to support our shop owners and workers as much as we can and if it also keeps them safe that is definitely worth spending the money on that."

Questions were asked whether the system could expand to cover the small retail areas in Bulwark and Thornwell. Cllr Armand Watts said: "Everyone knows that Tesco Express and the Chinese get countless problems from kids pinching alcohol to staff being racially abused. I think if anything there needs to be a system that covers those retail outlets too."

Mr Mason explained that a central 'box' system would be installed in the town centre and there was a possibility of the system covering Bulwark, but not Thornwell. "I doubt the signals will extend that far but I will look into that," he added.

Members voted to approve the grant for the system.