A CLOSED-circuit television network of cameras - funded by a 10p surcharge on parking - has produced 534 tapes of potential criminal evidence during the past year.

The 100 cameras covering Harrogate, Ripon, Boroughbridge, Knaresborough and Skipton produced 192 similar tapes in its first year of operation in 1996, said the system's annual report.

The scheme, operated by Harrogate Borough Council, has helped to reduce crime and disorder by forging close links formed with North Yorkshire Police.

The annual report said daily liaison with the police has produced a healthy working relationship of trust, confidence and professional respect.

It cost £117,000 to run the system during the past year. Its opening year recorded 1,784 incidents, a figure which has now grown to 2,764.

Camera operators work closely via radio links with door staff at night clubs, shops and an anti-shoplifting group.

There are also links for traffic information, town centre policing and a parks ranger.

The report also said: "There have been no complaints - verbal or written - against CCTV in relation to any infringement of privacy or inappropriate use of cameras during the past 12 months."