IN A bid to discourage young people from hanging around outside one of its stores, the Co-op has turned to classical music.

The company's Falconwood Park shop, in Falconwood Parade, Welling, is now belting out the classics from external speakers in the hope it will not be to the youngsters' taste.

Co-op spokesman Rob Oade said: "Some of our stores have problems with youths who gather outside and they can intimidate shoppers and our staff.

"Playing the music makes our shops less cool' as places for youngsters to hang out and can make life much easier for our customers and staff."

The taped music, featuring pieces by composers such as Vivaldi and Tchaikovsky, is controlled by shop staff.

Its introduction in Welling follows success at 200 other Co-op stores across the country.