PORTABLE closed-circuit television cameras have been issued to community safety wardens which can be fitted to their caps.

The tiny lenses will be used to film people involved in anti-social behaviour and it is hoped will result in their prosecution.

The cameras, costing £1,000 each, were first used on Redcar's Lakes Estate on Friday, resulted in the arrest of four people.

The wardens worked alongside Cleveland Police in an operation which also involved 32 youngsters being issued with anti-social behaviour notices. A quantity of alcohol was also seized.

Warden Linda Wilkinson, who used one of the cameras during Friday night's operation, said: "We had to wear badges saying we were filming with CCTV and we were quite dubious at how well it would work at first.

"We didn't know what the kids' reaction would be, but we were really surprised. They backed off when they saw the camera at first and were quite wary of us."

Warden Tracy Willett said: "We think they'll work well. It will be a good deterent."

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's cabinet member for community safety, Councillor Joyce Benbow said: "One of our main issues is the fact that in cases of anti-social behaviour, people are extremely reluctant to come forward as private individuals.

"This way, we can help provide the necessary evidence that could be used in prosecutions."