BUSINESS operators in Newton Abbot are being offered the chance to join a crime prevention programme with the fees waived for 12 months.

The UK Partners Against Crime (UKPAC) online portal, also available as a smartphone app, enables traders to easily report crimes and share intelligence.

Police can instantly access the information, increasing the chance of successful prosecutions.

The not-for-profit UKPAC co-operative, made up of businesses, police, crime prevention agencies and legal professionals, already operates in Torquay and in Teignmouth where prosecutions are now pending as a result.

The scheme usually costs £20 per month but Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison, Hernandez, has said her office will cover the first year’s cost.

More information will be presented at a meeting hosted by Newton Abbot Town Council on Thursday November 13.

Pierre Doutreligne, the authority’s Projects and Strategy Officer, said: ‘Crime and antisocial behaviour can be a real problem for business operators, despite our excellent CCTV system operated by Newton Abbot Security Trust.

‘The addition of UKPAC to the arsenal can only strengthen their position and help to make a real dent in the statistics.

‘Our event will allow businesses to hear from those who already know the difference UKPAC can make and I’d really urge Newton Abbot traders to attend.

‘There is nothing to lose and, potentially, much to be gained.’

The evening will be attended by representatives of Devon and Cornwall Police, the Chamber of Commerce and Newton Abbot Town Council.

Teignmouth businessman, Cllr Keith Underhill, said: ‘As chairman of the Teignmouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce and a town councillor, the ability for all the town’s businesses to join UKPAC is a welcome opportunity.

‘For whatever the reason, the excuse of “it’s a waste of time” when it comes to reporting crimes can no longer be used.

‘UKPAC gives businesses a direct crime reporting platform with the knowledge all submitted crime reports will be sent directly to the police.

‘I encourage all businesses, no matter the size and structure to take advantage of the 12-month free trial.’

Nationally, UKPAC has more than 1,300 members and this year has helped to secure prison sentences totalling 582 weeks.

The November 13 presentation runs from 6pm to 8pm at Newton’s Place, Wolborough Street.