A DOSSIER of pictures and details of convicted shoplifters is being handed to traders in Hockley as part of a new scheme to deter thieves.

The Hockley Against Retail Crime scheme launches today which gives retailers a file full of photographs, descriptions and details of convicted thieves.

The information will allow shop staff to identify shoplifters as soon as they step onto the premises, alert police if necessary and tell neighbouring businesses to be on their guard.

The scheme was developed by the Hockley Neighbourhood Policing Team and the Rochford Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.

PC Steve Joynes, the Hockley neighbourhood specialist officer, said: "On the one hand it will give the retailers an important advantage in knowing who and what to look for in protecting their stock.

"On the other hand, it sends a clear message to the thieves that we know who they are and what they are up to, and that we are looking out for them."

The file contains photographs of the offenders, their name, height, weight, distinguishing features and previous convictions.

The file will only have information on convicted offenders who are known to operate in the Hockley area.

Somerfield, the Factory Shop, Alldays and the Co-Op at Hawkwell, are just some of the shops signed up to the scheme.

PC Joynes said: "I got the idea from the Essex Retail Against Crime and just thought why shouldn't smaller places have it as well?

"I'm hoping we will eventually set up a radio link between the shops, so they can swap information about suspects quickly and give each other an early warning."

He also hopes to develop a presentation for shop employees on the information staff need to successfully prosecute shoplifters.