Bringing down the villains

Loss adjusters McLarens Toplis has struck an exclusive agreement with the Merseyside police force to try to recover antiques, art and other collectibles.

As part of the arrangement, both sides will use digital cameras and electronic exchanges to share information on the stolen goods.

McLarens Toplis associate director Neil Foster said the use of electronic communications would minimise cost and increase awareness of stolen articles.

The Merseyside Force Intelligence Bureau's detective and due dilligence officer Elaine O'Brian said: “Our intentions are to ultimately bring to justice the miscreants who traffic in this type of stolen property and to ensure the exchange of digital information to assist other forces.”