SECURITY cameras in Horwich could be turned off if shops and businesses refuse to help to pay for the running costs.

Councillors at Horwich called a crisis meeting for local companies but were dismayed when only three representatives turned up. During the last 12 months Horwich Town Council has sent three letters to 130 firms in Winter Hey Lane, Lee Lane and Chorley New Road asking for contributions of £10 per month towards the running costs of the security cameras.

Only a few traders pay, while others have refused, saying it would be another financial burden at a time when business rates have increased and they are facing heavy competition from the Middlebrook retail park.

The lack of co-operation is threatening the future of the eight cameras, which provide 24-hour surveillance, seven days a week, and which cost about £16,000 a year to maintain.

Leader of the town council, Cllr John Cronnolley, said: "I am disappointed with the apathy of traders. They have made it obvious they are not interested, what more can we do?"

Gary Parker, landlord at The Crown on Chorley New Road and secretary of Horwich Pub Watch, attended the meeting and said: "We need to keep this system going because it is working to make Horwich safer."

Yee Cheung owns the Golden Harvest Chinese takeaway in Chorley New Road, and said: "I hope this scheme can carry on. After the CCTV began the crime level has decreased a lot."

Businesses will have a few weeks in which to subscribe before the council decides to subsidise the system or turn off the cameras.

Councillor Barbara Ronson said: "We do not want to see the system go. We are very upset about it. The businesses here are part of the character of Horwich, but we can't pay for the CCTV without help from the people it serves."

Ted Finch owns The China Shop in Winter Hey Lane, he said: "I already lose takings because of the big stores at Middlebrook and I can't afford any more payments."

Anyone wanting to contribute can contact the town clerk, Linda Challender, on 01204 338900.