TRADERS on a troubled shopping strip have called for more CCTV cameras and heavier police presence.

Businesses in Lowesmoor, Worcester, have repeatedly been vandalised and broken into.

Shop windows are regularly smashed and workers, who feel unsafe at night, believe closed circuit cameras – along with more police patrols – would stamp out crime.

Last month technology shop Computer House was left picking up the pieces after being burlged twice in the space of seven days.

Company director Adam Gill believes CCTV would not only prevent crime, but help police catch those responsible.

“We’re part of the city centre and deserve that protection just as much as the High Street stores,” he said.

“But we’re just not sure who to turn to for help.”

Six months ago thieves stole £20,000 of hair extensions from specialist salon SHE.

Despite two CCTV cameras in Lowesmoor, one at either end of the street, nothing was captured on film.

Manager Jenna Gale said: “It feels like someone is broken into every week, but nothing is ever caught on CCTV. It’s incredibly frustrating. We close at 5pm and it’s not nice being here on your own. You don’t feel safe. I’ve had to get people to meet me because it’s horrible walking alone at night.”

Earlier this year burglars broke into Middle Eastern Foods and took £3,000 in cash, along with huge amounts of stock.

Three weeks ago vandals smashed windows at Midland Waterlife.

Manageress Liz Edge said: “We certainly need something to change.

“There is so much criminal damage. And how often do you see a police officer walking through Lowesmoor?”

Worcester City Council said there are no plans to install new cameras in the Lowesmoor area.

John Scarborough, head of governance and corporate support, said: “Although the council has a budget for additional CCTV equipment within its existing budget, it has no plans in the immediate future to spend this on new cameras because of the funding difficulties for monitoring the existing network.” Funding the existing CCTV network is an ongoing issue.

“We are presently engaged in ongoing discussions with the police about the funding which is due to cease on March 31, 2010,” said Mr Scarborough.

“Both parties are committed to try and find new sources of funding.”

No one from West Mercia police, which monitors the city’s CCTV network, was available to comment.