ALL-OUT war has been declared on town centre crime.

Two initiatives are combining in an impressive campaign to crack down on shoplifting, thievery and street crime.

A radio network has been set up in stores throughout the town and a radio-link co-ordinator will have an incognito presence, working with police to identify known offenders.

The co-ordinator will also report incidents to Wigan's CCtv Central Watch to ensure they are recorded on camera.

Town centre co-ordinator Laurie Barton said the radio link scheme had been run successfully over the Christmas period since 1998, but due to the efforts of the council, local retailers, the Town Centre Management Group, the Community Risk Management Group and the police, the position was now secure for at least a year.

She said special thanks were also due to Harry Holden, director of the council's Land and Property Department, and Sue Canning, of Cannings News.

"Don't even think about shoplifting in Leigh this Christmas - or at any time - as we know who you are and we will take action," said Laurie.

"It is hoped these initiatives will work together to make Leigh town centre a 'no go' area for shoplifters and thieves who cost retailers thousands of pounds over the Christmas period."

Funding and support for the radio-link co-ordinator position was provided by retailers, the Coalfield Challenge, the Land & Property Department and Greater Manchester Police.

Area Pc Steve Gaskell said: "We hope the public and retailers will both feel reassured that there are an increased number of officers operating in the town centre over the Christmas period.

"Together with the radio link co-ordinator, who will be liaising with all the stores, we can identify shoplifters early on and then take the appropriate action to prevent crime taking place."