Three appliance have so far had cameras fitted

Fire chiefs say a installing security cameras on three appliances as a trial has "dramatically cut" the number of violent incidents.

The engines had CCTV cameras installed in May as part of a six-month experiment ordered by the Cleveland Fire Authority.

The move followed an increasing number of violent attacks on crews attending emergencies - many from children.

But brigade bosses say they are already considering fitting out the entire Cleveland fleet with the cameras.

Mark Whelan, director of operations and community safety at Cleveland Fire Brigade, said: "There has been a dramatic reduction in the number of attacks on fire fighters.

"In the period before we installed the cameras we had 19 incidents.

One of the most important things we have to consider is the health and safety of our fire crews Mark Whelan, Cleveland Fire Brigade

"Since the cameras have been in operation we have had just two.

"So clearly, what we need to be doing is putting cameras on all of the machines."

Appliances at stations in Middlesbrough, Grangetown and Coulby Newham have been fitted with cameras.

The brigade says the move has proved to be a deterrent as potential attackers know images can be used in court.

Mr Whelan added: "One of the most important things we have to consider is the health and safety of our fire crews.

"If this continues to show that attacks are decreasing, then there is absolutely no reason why we should not put the cameras on all our appliances."

Vehicles are marked to show that they are equipped with cameras.

Children as young as five have been blamed for attacks on firefighters in the past.

In June 2002, firefighters faced a hail of stones from youngsters as they tackled the fires in empty council houses in Teesside.

The estate was eventually demolished.