Cameras 'reduce parking violence'

Parking wardens in the area have been wearing the cameras since March

Parking wardens in Perth and Kinross have reported a drop in the amount of abuse they have received since they started wearing video cameras.

The attendants have been using the head-mounted devices since March.

They said there had also been a reduction in the number of contested parking tickets.

The video evidence can be used if members of the public claim they have been treated unfairly and want to make a complaint against a warden.

Richard Valentine, parking superintendent for Perth and Kinross Council, said: "The equipment is light and easily carried. The parking attendants got used to wearing it very quickly and it is not at all obtrusive as they go about their duties.

"The equipment has been of great benefit to us with regard to the investigation of official complaints from members of the public regarding employee behaviour or service delivery, most of which have proven to be completely unfounded as verified by the video data.

"Instances of verbal abuse, which were quite prevalent, have almost ceased.

"Since we have introduced this equipment I have had no Violence and Aggression report forms from our employees with regard to any on-street incidents involving drivers, contractors or general passers-by."