Theft from shops in Hull city centre is in decline, according to the latest figures for the BID area.

Humberside Police statistics show that the number of thefts from shops in the BID area for the first eight months of this year was 427 compared with 565 for the same period last year.

The number of incidents of criminal damage fell to 75 – half the figure for January to August in 2011. The number of thefts from people in the BID area fell from 65 to 54. The total number of crimes reported during the period was down from 817 last year to 593.

Inspector Lee Edwards of the Riverside Neighbourhood Policing Team said the success is down to a number of factors, including the Hull BID radio system.

Under the system, businesses pay a one-off charge to receive a radio. As a result of recent investment by Hull BID a further 15 radios are available for loan to businesses. “The additional investment is another example of Hull BID working to protect its members,” said Lee.

“The radio service is a real asset in the fight against crime. People should still contact us if they need help with an emergency or non-emergency, but this does provide another option.”

Kathryn Shillito, Hull BID City Centre Manager, added: “By expanding the radio system we aim to make the equipment available to businesses on a short-term basis so they can try before they buy. Compared with other retail radio services which also charge an annual administration fee as opposed to our one-off charge, it represents excellent value.”

To receive updates on city centre statistics please contact Hull BID on 01482 611888 or e-mail info@hullbid.co.uk. Alternatively check out the website www.hullbid.co.uk.

IN TOUCH: The Hull BID radio system is helping to cut crime.

Photograph: Chris Oaten (www.otenphotography.co.uk)