Midlands Co-operative Society is to fund the development of a mock-up shop to teach young people that shoplifting is not a victimless crime.

The fake shop is being created by Leicester charity Warning Zone following a £4,600 donation from the society through its community dividend scheme.

“It will prove extremely valuable in teaching youngsters that shoplifting is not a bit of rebellious fun but a serious criminal activity that has an effect on the retailer and the people who work in that sector,” said Sharon Binfield-Hill, chief executive of Warning Zone.

A spokeswoman for Midlands Co-op added: “The hands-on approach at Warning Zone is an invaluable method of education. Our society is delighted to support such a community based initiative.”

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