Traders in Huddersfield are to harness computer technology to tackle town centre crime.

Huddersfield Partnership has set up a direct link with the town’s police station to provide a ‘real time’ picture of crime and anti-social behaviour.

An intranet, or private computer network, will connect shops, businesses, pubs and clubs to spread the word about problems quickly and effectively.

The software system is able to deliver criminal intelligence and information including CCTV images of those involved.

Members will also be able to view galleries of individuals they need to watch out for.

The intranet can also be used to report incidents and download photographs or images straight from CCTV.

Backed by Kirklees Council’s Safety Communities Team, the system is called Database and Intranet for Safer Communities (DISC).

Through the intranet, every member also receives a weekly e-newsletter with crime alerts and information of benefit to businesses.

Partnership manager Karen Hobson said: “Crime reduction is key. If we can prevent crime it supports the local economy, vibrancy and growth of the town.

“We want to use best practice and tools such as DISC to help businesses. We are excited about the launch and want to support the police in tackling and reducing crime in our town centre.”

Sgt Mandy Mellor, of Huddersfield police, said such technology had cut crime in other towns and cities and urged traders to sign up.

This month’s launch coincides with a survey from shopworkers’ union Usdaw which found that on average 22 shop staff were assaulted every day in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

The survey also revealed that 35% of shopworkers were threatened by customers, which is the second highest in the country, and over half were verbally abused.

Union general secretary John Hannett said: “Our survey shows that life on the frontline of retail can be pretty tough for many shopworkers and there is still a lot to do to help protect them.

“All too often criminals who assault staff are not even sent to court, and those who are can receive derisory sentences.

“In other cases, where the offender often isn’t charged at all, victims are left feeling that no-one cares that they were assaulted.

“Retail crime remains too high and there needs to be action to protect shopworkers.”

For more information on DISC contact Karen Hobson on karen@huddersfieldpartnership.co.uk or telephone 01484 480890.