The CCTV system run by Mendip District Council is proving its effectiveness, hitting a record number of requests by police for information and images during October.

That month more than 100 requests were made by police for information obtained by the system, the highest number in one month since the scheme was launched more than three years ago. The council is planning to install three new cameras in its system in the spring. Since August 2006, it has been able to fulfil more than 70 per cent of requests relating to information more the district's cameras.

Mendip District Council CCTV manager Chris Reeves said: "During the last year we have started using two mobile CCTV cameras which will soon be increased to three.

"The mobile cameras are positioned in areas of growing concern where there is no current CCTV coverage, and where there is agreement from the police."