Safer Herefordshire is responsible for the Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) network across the County. This includes co-ordinating operations with the Police and other agencies, and managing the control room and maintenance contracts.
There are currently 20 cameras in Hereford, five in Ledbury, six in Leominster and six in Ross-On-Wye.
CCTV plays a crucial role in detecting crime and assisting with incidents by providing Police Officers on the ground with vital information, and gathering images which can be used as evidence against offenders.
From the 1st April 2009 - 30th June 2009, the County's cameras noted and assisted with 1326 incidents.
These included detecting anti-social behaviour, intervening in disputes before injury or damage occurred, and alerting Police to theft and criminal damage, so the offenders could be quickly caught.
Leominster residents can now feel even safer thanks to the unveiling of a new CCTV camera at the Westbury Street Bus Station on Thursday 2nd July 2009.
The need for a new camera was initially suggested by West Mercia Police after a spate of anti-social behaviour in the immediate area, this was supported by a letter from a local resident who added to the urgency of the situation.
The Police liaised with Safer Herefordshire, which is responsible for the county’s CCTV cameras, to discuss the feasibility and cost implications of a new camera. At the time no funding was available, so Leominster Town Council was approached for assistance.
After a strong presentation from West Mercia Police in support of the new camera, the Town Council agreed to fully fund the project, in order to allow it to go ahead. The total cost of the new camera, including direct links to the Hereford based control room was £22,300.
Cllr Richard Westwood, Mayor of Leominster, speaking at the unveiling of the new CCTV camera, said: “Leominster Town Council has put a lot of resources into CCTV over the years and we’ve always been impressed with the dogged way the Police use the camera evidence and how the CCTV Officer works constantly to improve and enhance the equipment and coverage. It truly shows in the results achieved and ultimately benefits the local community”.
Debbie Stringer, from Safer Herefordshire, added: “Leominster Town Council, Safer Herefordshire and West Mercia Police are all committed to ensuring Leominster remains a safe place to live, work and visit and this new camera will not only support this vision but also allow us to continue our positive work in the community”.
The photograph shows the representatives involved with the new CCTV camera at its official unveiling. Left - Right: PC Tracy Lewis, Cllr Richard Westwood, Cllr Peter Jones, Safer Herefordshire's Debbie Stringer, Cllr Peter Goody and Cllr Peter McCaull.
Previously, shops and pubs in Leominster, Ledbury and Ross-On-Wye were only able to talk to other each other and local Police Officers within their own town. However, with the system upgrade, they're now able to contact the CCTV Operators directly.
The direct link allows Control Room Operators to immediately assist with incidents, whilst gathering images that can be used as valuable evidence. The cameras also help to improve crime detection rates and offender location.
If you would like any information regarding CCTV, please contact:
CCTV Officer
Safer Herefordshire
P.O. Box 4
Plough Lane
Hereford
HR4 0XH
Tel: 01432 261713
E-Mail: CCTV@herefordshire.gov.uk
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