FNN has learned that leading UK supermarket chain Tesco is trialling an initiative to weigh customers coming in and out of the store in Gateshead.

A spokesperson explained:

Tesco is facing an epidemic in shoplifting so we are considering introducing a weighing station at the entrance to our stores.

Customers are wieghed on entry and exit in order to determine if they have any shoplifted items on their person.

Yes, this will cause lines at the store entrance but those waiting will be served with advertisements for bargains in the store on a giant screen to keep them amused while they are weighed and frisked.

We don't think people will object too much as this is essentially what happens at every airport these days.

A pair of local women, San and Tray, who had just been caught shoplifting a copy of Viz magazine and a bottle of Lucozade, when asked about their weight told FNN:

Divvin’ be so nebby!

Among other things.