Mozart helps keep gang issue in tune

Jan 29 2009 by Adrian Short, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

CLASSICAL music is being played loudly to discourage gangs from hanging around Halebank’s Co-op store.

And works by Tchaikovsky and Mozart blasting out over external speakers seem to be having the desired effect of preventing youths from intimidating customers.

The deterrent is operating at more than 200 Co-operative stores across the country.

John Hilbert, the Co-operative’s regional loss prevention manager, said: “We had an issue with young people hanging around outside the store which was intimidating for shoppers and staff.

“This problem has been dramatically reduced since we introduced the music. The youngsters are definitely not classical music fans and tend to disappear as soon as we turn the music on.

“This is an extra tool we can install in locations where we have such problems.

“Playing the music makes our shops ‘less cool’ as places for youngsters to hang out.

“We are pleased the music is having such a positive effect and is making life easier for our customers and staff.”