SHOPKEEPERS will be displaying posters in shop windows warning youngsters they cannot buy graffiti tools including spray cans, permanent markers and correction fluid.

The new campaign, launched at WH Smith in Woolwich, will warn under 16s against attempting to buy the materials and will soon be rolled out to the rest of the area.

Greenwich Council, the police and shopkeepers hope the new initiative will stamp out graffiti in the borough and council officers will also be visiting schools to talk to pupils about the campaign.

Executive member for public services Councillor Pete Challis said: “Graffiti is a crime which cause real misery for many people.

“I'm delighted WH Smith has become the first retailer to take part in the campaign and look forward to other retailers doing likewise.”