Chelmsford's crime-fighting Publink radio system has had a successful first year.

Just a few hours after its launch, there were arrests for drug and car offences.

Now, just over a year on, the system which links pubs, clubs and cafs directly with the police and town centre CCTV has seen 113 arrests from 488 incidents.

The intention has been to improve safety for residents, visitors and all those using licensed premises.

The scheme is the latest in a series of initiatives between Chelmsford Borough Council, the Chamber of Commerce, Chelms-ford police and town centre management.

Radios are its key. Users can contact police late at night or early morning to report an incident, and officers are quickly on the scene.

Spencer Clarke, senior assistant engineer at Chelmsford Borough Council, said: "The effective police response to incidents has put out a clear warning to the minority who cause alcohol and drug-related crime in Chelmsford."

By Fred Hammerton

Reporter's e-mail: fred.hammerton@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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