Officers were stationed outside the Horsefair Shopping Centre’s Information Point and handed out more than 200 free bells to shoppers.

The bells can be attached to purses,triggering a rattling sound if they are tampered with,alerting the owner of a possible theft.

Speaking about the scheme,Horsefair Manager,Kevin Smith said:”The alarms went down really well with our shoppers and will be an excellent deterrent for thieves.”

For anyone who didn’t pick up an alarm bell,Officers will be returning to the Horsefair throughout the day on Thursday,9th April during the Centre’s Easter Fun Day.Officers will also be on hand to postcode mobile phones and bicycles as part of their safety campaign.

Police Community Support Officers,Michelle Poulter(second from left)and Sue Clarke(far right)with fully alarmed shoppers.