A NEW shoplifting deterrent has been implemented at Atherleigh Way Asda in Leigh.

The National Civil Recovery scheme attempts to recover the cost of goods stolen, CCTV surveillance, colleague time and clerical costs direct from the individual without needing to go to court.

The programme, which has been introduced across all Asda's 255 stores, works in tandem with the police and criminal justice system.

General store manager, Mike Kenny said: "Where Civil Recovery has already been introduced incidents were down by up to as much as 20-45 per cent. The scheme sends a strong message that shoplifting is a crime that doesn't pay especially as the thief foots the bill."