A FUEL watch scheme is being launched in a bid to stop motorists driving off from petrol stations without paying.

A dedicated police officer will be responsible for tackling so-called “drive-offs”. Between February 2008 and January this year, there were 347 drive-off offences in Bury and the total value of fuel stolen was £15,468.

Under the new scheme officers will liaise directly with retailers and provide details of offending vehicles.