SKIPTON'S business community has joined forces with police to tackle crime in the town.

Throughout 2024 Skipton businesses have been successfully using a new crime-fighting app to tackle antisocial behaviour and retail crime.

Skipton businesses signed up to Schemelink which allows them to share real-time information and alerts about thefts and other crimes happening throughout the town centre.

The system is funded by Skipton BID, who are committed to working towards Skipton being a safe and welcoming town, especially in the run up to Christmas when crime in the town centre may see an increase.

Businesses can send urgent, important messages instantly to each other’s smartphones.

The app allows GDPR compliant instant messaging between businesses and the police, which allows them to share messages and images of suspicious people to all members.

It is a key tool for sharing urgent information, so if there is an incident all businesses can be instantly made aware.

The system is used by retailers and pubs with nearly 100 businesses in the town actively using the system on a daily basis to support each other and share information.

To support the system there are CCTV cameras throughout the town centre which aim to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

The cameras monitor the central area of the town including Coach Street, the High Street, Swadford Street and Newmarket Street.

The system is monitored by a professional company 24 hours a day and Skipton BID and North Yorkshire Police have access to the system and are able to request footage.

The CCTV system has provided evidence for a number of crimes which have taken place throughout the town.

Sgt Paul Evans from North Yorkshire Police said: “We have a tremendous working relationship with both Shop Watch and Skipton BID, working closely over the years to make Skipton as hostile an environment as possible for those who wish to commit crime and disorder.

“Schemelink is not just for the retailers, the local licensees are onboard and using the app to help keep the local pubs and clubs safer. All round it’s a great addition to helping us keep Skipton safe and crime free.”

Sarah Howsen, Skipton BID Manager said: “We want to assist in the prevention of crime and anti-social behaviour in the town centre and aim to stop it happening all together.

"Since we have introduced Schemelink nearly 100 businesses across town have signed up, showing the appetite to support each other.

"By all the businesses working together we can get the message out, do not come to Skipton for criminal activities, you will be caught.”