'You're being watched' town centre thieves are warned

Billingham town centre and its 900 car parking spaces are now covered by closed circuit television cameras, working 24 hours a day, and filming in colour.

Doug Carhart, head of security for Stockton Borough Council, said: "These will reduce car and street crime considerably and make Billingham a safe place not only for shoppers, but for visitors to attractions such as the Forum Theatre.

"In addition to that, there are other facets to security Stockton Borough Council can offer to local traders.

"Burglar alarms can be inter linked with the camera system. What that means is, as soon as an alarm is activated, the cameras, which will be pre-set, will swing round and home in, not only on the retail premises, but all the escape routes.

"Likewise, town centre store detectives can come in on the council's security radios and be linked into the camera control room, which gives added coverage and protection to shops and staff."

The former police crime prevention specialist said: "All in all it means no hiding place for crooks."

The cost of the installation, including first year running costs of £75,000, has been funded by the council. He paid tribute to his deputy, Mick McLone, for putting the new scheme together.

Chairman of Billingham Business Association, jeweller Jim Sculley, said: "I am delighted that Billingham has its own CCTV cameras. It will give added confidence and peace of mind to shoppers and traders in Billingham.

Billingham councillor and ex Stockton Mayor Councillor Barry Woodhouse said: "It's good news for Billingham.

"The cameras are up and running in time for Christmas."

Centres where cameras are installed experience an immediate 60 per cent drop in crime.

Mr Carhart said Stockton was a prime example of the impact closed circuit television cameras have had on crime.

"Since CCTV was installed in Stockton High Street, crime has been cut; street crime is now non existent," he said