THEFT has been reduced by almost 40 per cent in Hucknall town centre – thanks to the eyes of a community inspector.
A poster featuring the eyes of Inspector Nick Butler was put up after studies suggested people behave better when they feel they are being watched.
The eye-catching poster, designed to target theft in the area, is displayed in petrol stations, supermarkets, car parks and other key places around the town.
Inspector Butler said he was inspired to create the poster after reading an article about the study.
He said: "I photographed my own eyes and used an art package to stylise them a bit.
"We have an excellent beat team but it is impossible to be everywhere all of the time."
Now, Hucknall has seen almost a 40 per cent drop in theft in the town centre after the posters were implemented 18 months ago.
The inspector added: "Although other districts have seen reductions, they are not as dramatic as those seen in Hucknall.
"It also reminds people to take care of their property and not have handbags open."
Sofia Delgaudio, manager of Sense Charity shop on the High Street, said: "I have one of the posters behind the till. When people are at the till, they tend to look up and see it."
She added that the poster helped her to remind customers to watch their bags.
Manager of Poundstretcher Jennie Downs said that although the poster was not displayed in her store, she had noticed a decrease in theft recently.
She said: "Anything is worth a go. I think shoplifting has gone down – especially in here."
Ashfield District Councillor Lachlan Morrison praised the police initiative and said he supported anything encouraging good behaviour.
He said: "Anything that the police do to reduce crime is definitely a good thing."
Inspector Butler added: "I think it's like the cardboard police figures you see in shops. People seem to behave better when they feel watched.
"I hope it's also a reminder that we will take action when crimes take place."