A CUMBRIAN company has invented an electronic tracking device to help prevent thefts from supermarkets.

The system tracks the movements of shopping trolleys and alerts security staff if one is pushed out of the store before the contents have been paid for.

The device can also be used to help stores overcome queues at checkouts and to provide marketing information on customers' shopping habits.

But the firm behind the invention, Tagga Limited, based at the Blencathra Business Centre, near Keswick, is in danger of running out of cash before the system is properly marketed.