SHOPLIFTERS are being warned to avoid Hockley as a new scheme names and shames convicted offenders to shopowners.

The Hockley Against Retail Crime scheme launches on Friday and involves giving retailers a file full of photographs, descriptions and details of convicted thieves.

The information will allow shop staff to identify shoplifters as soon as they step onto the premises, alert police if necessary and tell neighbouring businesses to be on their guard.

* More in tomorrow's Echo