THE half-million pound CCTV crime-busting initiative in Newton-le-Willows and Earlestown has been declared a success.

Members of the Eyes Over Newton CCTV committee heard that the well-supported camera monitoring programme, installed two years ago, has resulted in further investment by Newton 21.

Shopwatch, Pubwatch and Taxi Watch schemes are now to be developed in both towns. This will involve participating town-centre businesses being issued with portable radios to enable them to alert one another and the CCTV control room to any problems.

The monitoring venture has seen St Heens Council, the police and local businesses working together to say no to crime.

Councillor Ken Pinder, Executive Member for Community Safety, said: "Without doubt this joint approach has had a significant impact upon crime. Newton and Earlestown businesses are working together to say no to crime while helping to provide a safer environment for local people and visitors and ensuring the prosperity of the community".

Sgt. Tom Duffy, of Newton-le-Willows Police, said: "Since the cameras were put in place and the two monitoring officers were appointed, more than 200 incidents have been tracked resulting in some form of action, there have been 31 arrests and 46 tapes have been supplied as evidence to investigating officers.

Businesses which display the Eyes Over Newton logo in their premises support the campaign. Any members of the public who want to back it can send donations to F. Mort, CCTV, 18 Oxford Street, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 9AQ. Cheques should be made payable to: CCTV Eyes Over Newton.

Punch Taverns recently donated £1,000 while £500 came from TSB, and Willow Day Nursery pledged £100 to the venture.