Grant will help shops to shine (From Barry And District News)

Grant will help shops to shine

CASH-strapped Gibbonsdown shops are to benefit from a Home Office hand-out to tackle crime and vandalism on their doorstep.

The Gibbonsdown Small Retailers, which includes Londis Pricedown Stores, The Master Fryer and Wok Express will use the £20,000 to be fitted with CCTV cameras. In addition, the street lighting in the area will be improved.

Home Office Crime Reduction Minister John Denham announced the 114 retail schemes across the Britain, including eight in Wales, will receive a total of £3 million.

The shopkeepers could apply for funds to carry out improvements to their business premises. These may include the installation of CCTV and burglar alarms, security lighting, better locks and toughened glass.

Ramesh Kerai of Pricedown Stores said: "I hadn't told my customers about it just yet. I was waiting to see when it would happen. But I definitely think it will help my business."

Since the Master Mariner pub shut down, the lighting around the area has been poor. Ramesh added: "Some people have to carry torches to see where they're going. I put up a light to help them see, but within a fortnight it was smashed. People just don't feel safe walking in the dark. I know it puts people off coming to get a pint of milk or bread late at night."

Customer Annette Fletcher of Caldy Close added: "It's about time. It's too dark around here. You can't even see where you're going. If I have to go out for anything, I will but very reluctantly. I'll be much happier with more street lights."

But Anthony Rees said: "I don't think it's a matter of safety, but it will be better to have light so we can see where we're going."

The equipment will be bought later this month and installed by March 2002.