POLITICAL rivals have put the controversial issue of CCTV security cameras in Pendle back in the election focus.

Labour candidate Gordon Prentice has taken issue with his Tory opponent over remarks in a Conservative leaflet which said: "The Liberals, led by their own general election candidate, opposed them.

"Labour, presumably supported by their candidate, failed to support a council motion in favour of CCTV."

Today Mr Prentice said: "The Conservative Parliamentary candidate John Midgley would have voters believe I opposed the introduction of CCTV in Pendle. This is quite untrue.

"He is quite wrong to suggest the Pendle Labour group opposed CCTV.

"Labour pressed for CCTV. The record is clear even if Mr Midgley chooses not to read it."

Liberal-led Pendle Council decided not to apply for Home Office cash to help pay for CCTV cameras in Nelson and Brierfield.

Instead, the council is pressing ahead with an anti-crime partnership with the police, traders and other groups.

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