The Metropolitan Police will now be offering free books in every custody suite in London. 

The project, called 'Books in Nicks', will work with the charity Give A Book to offer detainees all across the capital the chance to choose a book from over 30 titles, which they can keep free of charge. 

'Books in Nicks' came into being after Special Constable Steve Whitmore was asked by an 18-year-old detainee, who had been arrested for assault and possession of drugs, if he could borrow a book while in custody earlier this year. SC Whitmore lent the man his own book, Catcher in the Rye, and told him to keep it.

SC Whitmore said: "The look on his face was amazing, his attitude and hostility towards me completely changed and it created common ground for us to talk about. 

"He said he'd never been given a book before to own, and that really moved me."

The donated books, which include Catcher in the Rye, Treasure Island, Moby Dick and Great Expectations, are available in a number of different languages and contain leaflets advertising free educational courses. 

And a new magazing called 'The Week' will be offered to younger detainees, containing current articles and pictures. 

Speaking of the project, SC Whitmore said: "The aim of this scheme is to provide easy-to-read books that are familiar, tangible and can be kept. It also provides a possible alternative pathway for young detainees by flagging up free educational courses and access to charities with diversion options. 

"Our core belief is that to pass on a good read is a transaction of worth."

Trustee of Give a Book, Victoria Gray, said: "We just thought it was a brilliant idea and right up our street. 

"All the books come through the charity so it doesn't cost the Met anything. 

"Just the act of giving a book can change a difficult situation. It shows you're being thought about differently. I truly believe that reading can open a door and help turn people's lives around."