A CHRISTMAS crackdown on crime is being launched by Ludlow Police who will be putting extra officers on the streets from next week to deal with shoplifters, pickpockets and other ne'er-do-wells.

Anti-social behaviour will be targeted and revellers who have had a few too many will be dealt with in a firm but fair manner.

"A team of officers will be on the streets in plain clothes and in uniform," said Ludlow Inspector John Payton.

"They will be working via a radio link to each other and the station and will use intelligence gathered from CCTV cameras. Intelligence from our two traffic wardens, who have good links with shopkeepers, will also come in useful."

The increased police presence will begin as the shops begin the frenetic run-up to Christmas.

"The shops will be busier and we do get people from other towns coming to Ludlow with ulterior, dishonest, motives," said the Inspector.

"This is a new initiative made possible by the increased number of officers we now have in Ludlow. We have 16 stores with their own radio link now and with the CCTV network and the extra police in the town there should be a substantial deterrent.

"The officers will also be on hand to deal with any rowdiness."

Two new CCTV cameras should be in operation by Christmas. They will monitor the corner of Station Drive and Gravel Hill and the area opposite Station Drive Surgery. Six cameras are already operating in the town centre and there are plans to install more at the railway station and Tesco's supermarket.

The South Shropshire Community Safety Partnership is contributing £5,000 towards the cost of the cameras and has secured funding of £18,000 from the Government and West Mercia Police.