TRACKER Network is backing the police in a nationwide mission to reverse the surge in lorry and lorry load theft by sponsoring the National Stolen Lorry Load Desk and its inaugural HGV security trade show.

The Desk, which has recorded a 50 per cent rise in the value of goods stolen in 2001 on the previous year, is a unique, nationwide partnership founded with a desire for better co-operation and intelligence share between the police and industry.

It pools information about lorry theft, including the number, type, geography and goods stolen, in order to spot trends, disrupt criminal activity, reduce losses, and minimise risks in lorry theft. To be able to operate efficiently, it relies on industry partners, like Tracker, the stolen vehicle recovery specialist.

The sponsorship deal coincides with a change in status of the initiative, relocating from its formative base in Essex police to New Scotland Yard where operations will be taken over by the Metropolitan Police, significantly expanding the Desk's resources and technology.

As well as sponsoring the desk itself, Tracker has also pledged to be the main sponsor of the first HGV security trade show, HGV Crime Solutions on November 19, which will be dedicated solely to exhibiting security products and services which help combat lorry theft. For more information call 0500 090909.