A VIDEO CAMERA which has helped combat anti-social behaviour problems on a North-East estate has been modified to improve its success rate.

The camera, which was mounted on a police cycle helmet, has helped catch hooligans on the Ingleby Barwick estate, Teesside.

It is also responsible for identifying the suspect in a racially motivated attack in the area and the evidence on the tape will be used to help secure a conviction.

The prototype, which was launched in February this year, was the idea of PC Kevin Stockley, who is a local beat officer.

Developed by Visual Security Systems, it has now been modified so it is much easier to use.

As a result, both the camera and the recording pack are now half the original size and the camera can run for up to 20 hours.

The original video was only capable of recording seven hours of footage.

PC Stockley said: "I am now able to cover around 20 to 30 miles a day and film for the duration of the shift.

"Another modification means the device can be unhooked and mounted onto the shoulder, now dubbed the parrot, while house searches are carried out.

"It has become an invaluable tool and has seen anti-social behaviour plummet since word of the camera has got around."