A CRIME-FIGHTING app is being developed to tackle shoplifting and violence in Carlisle city centre.

The news of the development was revealed by Peter McCall, Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, earlier this week.

Once launched, the app will aim to share information between retailers in Carlisle and police, and make them aware of any crime that takes place.

Speaking about the new development, Mr McCall said: “The app will pre-warn group users of any anti-social behaviour or stealing that may be happening in the town.

“The instant messaging provides ‘live’ updates of when an offender has become violent or aggressive.

“This also improves the safety of Carlisle’s retail staff, security, police and therefore the public.

“I urge members of the public to contact me if they would like to provide positive opportunties within their community and be involved in a project.”

Further details on when it will be launched will be announced in due course.

Those wishing to get involved in the creation of the new app are on the Police and Crime Commissioners website.

Mr McCall has also announced the successful applicants for the Property Fund.

The fund sends money that has been created from the sale of items that cannot be returned to identified owners - these include things that have been seized from criminals.

Under the Powers of Criminal Courts Act (POCA), any money seized is reinvested back into local communities.

Those successful from the latest round of applications were; Plumpton Community Play Area near Penrith, Workington Warriors/Junior Blacks, Maryport Boys and Girls Club, Churches Together in Brampton, and AWAZ Cumbria’s Unity Festival - which takes place in Carlisle this weekend.

“Taking money from often the ill-gotten gains of criminals and re-investing it into the community can only be a good thing.

“I am particularly focused on projects which give our young people positive values, help develop resilience, confidence and a sense of ownership and responsibility to their local communities to help break that cycle of criminality.

“Local people make applications based on what matters most to them and what will make a real difference to them,” Mr McCall added.

Inspector Jim Bailey said: “Whether it is being able to buy some new kit or updating community club resources, the Property Fund is an excellent example of how much difference funding can make to volunteers and clubs.

“Community groups often reply on people giving them an extra ‘leg up’ and having the opportunity to apply for grants that we know will be spent locally, on projects and people that need it most, is vital.”

The next deadline date for Property Fund applicants is Saturday, August 31.

To apply, go online to: https://cumbria-pcc.gov.uk/what-we-do/funding/property-fund/