Portable cameras to focus on crime

Residents say they are afraid to enter Limehurst Square after dark

Three "rapid response" CCTV cameras are being switched on in one area of Northampton as part of a new approach to deal with youth crime and anti-social behaviour.

The cameras were to begin rolling on Wednesday in Limehurst Square in New Duston, where the police said residents have had problems with anti-social behaviour.

People living in the area told BBC Look East they were too frightened to use some of the shops and facilities in the square because of "sheer intimidation" by youths.

The cameras, which have been funded by the government, will be operated at Northampton Borough Council's CCTV control room.

Retailers in the square also have radios to call for help whenever trouble breaks out.

The cameras will target areas on a short term basis and can be moved to other parts of the town the police identify as crime hotspots.

The CCTV cameras can be installed and working within a day.