MORE councillors should supply a crime deterrent product in their wards.

That is the view of John Campion, police and crime commissioner for West Mercia, who has urged councillors to

supply Smartwater in their area.

In June, the commissioner offered to contribute 25 per cent of the cost for councillors looking to supply the product, which is a water-based solution that is unique to each bottle, allows property to be marked and enables the police to identify the owner of the property, and potentially the offender.

He said: "So far, I have had six councillors put in an application for Smartwater which would cover approximately 3,500 homes.

"It would be great to add even more homes to the 30,205 that are already protected with Smartwater. We have already seen great successes with Smartwater proving to work, and I would like to see this continue across the rest of our communities."

Councillors were also offered free signs to let offenders know that if they commit crime in this area then they are likely to get caught and not profit from their crime.

"Many people that have used Smartwater, and are now living in a ‘We Don’t Buy Crime’ town, are feeling more reassured and commented on how there is now a more enhanced community spirit," Mr Campion added

"This offer will not only contribute to reducing crime but it will provide a further opportunity for us all to work together and make our communities feel safer."