A scheme to cut down on violence and vandalism on school buses in Leicestershire is being rated a success.

CCTV cameras were installed on vehicles in September in response to several serious incidents.

Eight moveable cameras were bought for �15,000 at the beginning of the school term.

We want children to be able to travel in peace James Holden, Assistant Director for Transportation

The cameras can be moved around from one bus to another and so far the scheme has covered Loughborough, Soar Valley and South and East Leicestershire.

The cameras are used to pick up on any bad behaviour by youngsters.

Initially children are given a warning, after that they face detention, and if the bad behaviour persists, they will be banned from using the transport.

The county council says the response has been very positive.

There have only been a few incidents which have required disciplinary action, and in general youngsters have been accepting of the scheme.

Assistant Director for Transportation, James Holden, said: "That early morning bus journey is a crucial part of the school day and we want children to be able to travel in peace.

Safety message

"There is also an important safety aspect concerning the driver who must not be distracted while doing his job."

Minders and inspectors have also been introduced on some routes to help reduce bad behaviour.

Mr Holden said the CCTV experiment would be continued for another year but there was a real possibility of it becoming permanent.

Tapes are made available to schools so they can be used to reinforce the safety message.