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Classical Answer

by msecadm4921

A retailer in a corner of Surrey has an answer to anti-social youths – classical music.

Music by composers such as Mozart and Beethoven is being played to deter groups of teenagers hanging around at night.<br><br>in Woodhatch, Alldays store manager Diana King was aware of the success other branches have had at deterring groups from gathering by pumping out classical music and decided to try it in Trehaven Parade.<br><br>Mrs King said: “So far it seems to be working as the kids don’t like classical music. We have had items stolen from the store and customers verbally abused so I hope this improves the situation.”<br><br>Surrey Police Neighbourhood Inspector for Reigate and Banstead, Clive Davies, said: “This is an excellent idea. Surrey Police has a variety of tough new powers to deal with anti-social behaviour but we always welcome suggestions from the community. We are determined to make the public feel safer and will not tolerate anti-social behaviour.”<br><br>Woodhatch Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Bob Lamont said: “I think this will prove to be extremely effective as I have spoken to many local youngsters and they all agree classical music isn’t cool and they don’t like listening to it.”

The force also points to success in Dorking, thanks to the town’s Shopwatch radio system and CCTV operators.

At around 1.20pm on Saturday, 24 February CCTV operators were contacted by the manager of Curry’s, High Street, via the Shopwatch radio system, and informed that a male and female were stealing electrical goods. As the suspects left the store CCTV operators were able to monitor them crossing the High Street.

PCSO Tim Pulleyn, who was patrolling nearby heard the reports on the radio and located the couple. The male suspect ran off in the direction of South Street and the female was apprehended by Tim and arrested on suspicion of theft by police officers who arrived moments later. The goods, three sets of hair straighteners, were also recovered.

The 39-year-old female suspect admitted the offence and was given a caution.

PCSO Tim Pulleyn said: “This is a perfect example of how important Shopwatch is. The link the radios provide between stores in Dorking, and the partnership between those stores, CCTV operators and the Police has helped to dramatically reduce the number of shoplifting offences in recent months.

“Shopwatch also provides valuable reassurance to retailers and shoppers in the town and I would like to use this opportunity to invite those who are not already signed up to join the scheme, because it really is a useful tool in the fight against crime.”

Julie Helps, CCTV manager for East Surrey, said: “Shopwatch provides us with invaluable information to help catch offenders. Retailers using these radios act as an extra pair of eyes and ears, in addition to the highly trained CCTV operators, police officers and PCSOs, which can only be reassuring to those using and working in Dorking town centre.”

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