BACH KEEPS YOBS QUIET

Managers of a supermarket chain have come up with a classic idea to deter gangs of yobs loitering outside their stores.

Four Co-op shops in Andover, Worcester, Bristol and north Wales have installed music systems which play classical music in an attempt to prevent abusive behaviour towards locals and shop workers.


The number of youngsters congregating outside have since dropped, mangers say.

"Obviously it is early days, as the system has only been installed a few weeks, but managers tell us the classical music appears to be working as fewer youths are loitering outside the stores," Julia Rogers, of Co-op's security, was quoted as telling The Big Issue.

Many youths gather outside the shops in the evening because it is often the only place open.

A survey revealed one in three Co-op stores reported violent attacks against staff last year.

Four more Co-op stores are planning to adopt the music.

Railway companies have been using similar tactics to discourage vandalism - having adopted the method from New York subways.