A SUCCESSFUL "business watch" scheme in Pendle has received a boost after five new CCTV cameras were put in place.

It is hoped that the cameras will not only act as a tool for crime prevention and detection but be a selling point to attract new businesses to the area.

It is the latest in a string of projects at the Lomeshaye Industrial Estate where companies have linked up to fight crime.

Peter Sanderson, the managing director of Pendle Signs, one of the companies based at Lomeshaye, said the cameras were a welcome addition to the site, both to encourage new businesses to the area as well as making current firms feel secure.

He said: "The installation of the CCTV cameras on the estate has been the icing on the cake for all of the companies based here.

"Many investments have been made in terms of security, signage and other general improvements.

"It is a pleasure to have the peace of mind knowing such a valuable asset to the area is watching over us for years to come."

Over 70 companies on the industrial estate have formed a Business Watch scheme.

It allows companies to share information between themselves, the police and Pendle Borough Council.

The scheme encourages local companies to keep an eye out for crime and share details of any suspicious activity.

They use email to keep in touch and hold regular breakfast meetings to discuss issues such as security.

The cash for the cameras has come from the North West Development Agency and the environment charity Groundwork.

Information gathered by them will be made available to the police.

Barbara Hollingworth, Pendle's Crime Prevention Officer, said: "The Lomeshaye CCTV system is welcomed by police in Pennine Division as another tool to help further reduce already low crime levels.

"The cameras will act as a visual reminder to would-be criminals and act as a useful means of preventing as well as detecting crime."