Shipley traders are hoping to crack down on criminals targeting shoppers by handing out £15,000 of anti-crime equipment.

The town’s Business Watch scheme is hailing a success this year after the number of people who were purse-dipped or pick-pocketed almost halved.

Between January and December of this year there were 12 reports of theft from people, compared to 23 over the same time period in 2012.

Business Watch treasurer Barry Cooper said the organisation had been making a concerted effort to make better use of shop radios which allow traders to tip each other off about suspicious behaviour.

“It’s something we’ve worked really hard on in our scheme to make sure we’re sharing all the information we can,” he said.

As well as shops, Shipley police officers also have radios which link to a CCTV control room so cameras can be trained on possible criminals.

This year for the first time, the group has paid for 7,500 bells and 1,000 purse cables, plus some mobile phone cables, which are being given out at shops throughout the town.

The bells and cables, which cost £1.50 to £3 each, can be attached to bags and belongings to stop phones and purses being taken. Mr Cooper said: “It’s something for our loyal customers, just to give them that little bit of extra protection,” Mr Cooper said, adding that the response from shoppers so far had been extremely positive.

“They usually ask if they can have one for a friend. I went to give some to a shop the other day and was stopped at the bus stop and had to give some away to four people who were asking.”

Shipley Neighbourhood Inspector Hugh Robinson said: “We welcome the reduction in theft from person offences and continue to work with the town centre manager and Business Watch scheme.

“We hold monthly meetings where crime and other issues are discussed.

“We also link into the Shopwatch radio system operated within Shipley town centre and are looking at closer ties with the business community."