December035655.jpg)
A scheme to reduce shoplifting in Douglas has been a great success, according to the organisers.
The detection rate for recorded offences has risen from 50 to 80 per cent since "Shopwatch" was launched, in 2006.
The scheme is based on a co-ordinated approach to detecting shoplifters and bringing them to justice, with members sending and receiving text messages about suspicious behaviour, or if a known offender is seen.
Material is distributed to all Shopwatch members and the coordinating committee has the power to issue group bans, effectively preventing shoplifters from entering most of the shops in the centre of Douglas.
There have also been cases where repeat offenders have received heavier sentences from the courts after stealing while banned under the scheme.
Information Commissioner orders FSA to reconsider FOI response on staffing and pay
Mountain Road closure extended until Thursday
Claims more parents are choosing to pull their children out of traditional schools
Cost of living expected to become key election issue as charities report increased demand
