Businesses in Bradford are being urged to help fight crime in the city by making the most of closed-circuit television security.

Police are carrying out an audit of the city's CCTV systems to build up a database of the resources available.

The review is the idea of Bradford Central crime prevention officer PC Paul Corah, who says the partnership between police and retailers will benefit both parties.

"Not only will this help the police detect offences, it will enable us to work in partnership with local firms, helping them to help themselves in the fight against crime," he said.

Leaflets, sponsored by Kings Security, of Grattan Road, Bradford, will be sent to all retailers and businesses in the city centre, asking for details of the CCTV systems they have.

Advice will also be available on installing and running security systems to ensure businesses are getting the best return from their investment.

There are dozens of CCTV cameras in operation across the city centre, installed by both the local authority and businesses who want to protect their stores.

PC Corah said: "A robbery might have occurred in a building society in which the criminal had his face covered by a balaclava.

"But another camera may have captured the robber a few minutes earlier in the process of putting the balaclava on. The database will make it quicker and easier to track down this vital piece of footage."

The audit is being carried out by City Centre Beat, a partnership uniting Bradford Central Police with local business.

The partnership aims to reduce crime and improve the quality of life for everyone who lives or works in or visits the city centre.

Anthony King, managing director of King's Security Systems Limited, said the company had close links with the police. He said the company was approached by officers to help with surveillance on a local bank, using its latest technology.

"Working in partnership with local security companies, the police appear to be winning the fight against crime in the area," he added.

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