Cameras are now equipped with digital technology

Northumbria Police has just completed a �500,000 upgrade of CCTV cameras in Newcastle.

The force says since cameras were introduced in the city, the number of reported crimes in the city have fallen by more than 4,000.

Officers say the new digital system will provide much greater camera coverage and clearer images, which in turn will enhance their use in court proceedings.

A force spokesman said: "Before cameras were installed there were 14,961 crimes reported in the city centre.

"By the year 2002 that figure had dropped to 10,385 and a further reduction is expected this year."

Initially there were 16 cameras at strategic sites around the city. The number has increased to 33.

Fibre optics

Superintendent Eric Mock, said: "The cameras were ahead of their time when they were introduced at the end of 1992, but hadn't quite kept up with the pace of technology and an overhaul was well overdue.

"Vast improvements have been made in terms of quality, enhanced through the installation of new digital colour cameras. Everything is now linked back to the control room via fibre optics.

"We're also working on expanding the existing system by linking it with the Grainger Market CCTV system which is currently being installed and the new system in Cathedral Square."

Information from the cameras has helped several high profile incidents and enquiries.

In one murder inquiry it was estimated that CCTV footage saved around six weeks' work by the Incident Room, the equivalent of 3,360 hours of detective work.

Mr Mock added: "There is no doubt that CCTV systems cut crime and disorder.

"We want people to feel safe when they visit Newcastle city centre, whether it is to shop, study or party. These cameras are helping that to happen."