EIGHT new CCTV cameras have been installed in Blackburn town centre in the latest round of Home Office cash grants for surveillance equipment.

Blackburn with Darwen Crime and Disorder and Road Safety Partnership Group received £197,200 for its "Blackburn: Creating a Safer Town Centre" initiative last year.

Existing cameras in Blackburn town centre have been upgraded and new ones fitted in the Darwen Street, Church Street, Northgate and the railway station area.

The scheme was among 180 new schemes in England worth £33 million announced last year by then Home Secretary and Blackburn MP Jack Straw.

Nine cameras were installed last year in the town centre and the eight new ones are now all installed -- with the last going up outside the railway station yesterday.

When he announced the cash Mr Straw said: "This government is determined to reduce crime and the fear of crime.

"CCTV is playing a crucial role in helping the police combat crime and importantly reduce the fear of crime.

"This is the largest single allocation of CCTV money to date and thousands of people across England and Wales will soon be able to benefit from CCTV in their communities, towns, villages and shopping centres.

"As an extra set of eyes for the police, CCTV is always 'on the beat' and able to provide an accurate and permanent record of what and who has been seen.

"This technology has proved its worth in reducing crime and making people feel safer.

"Vehicle crime is a good example "CCTV has helped many car parks gain Secured Car Park Status, resulting in dramatic falls in crime and increased usage.

"On a personal note, I used to approach Preston station car park on my way back to Blackburn on a Friday with some trepidation every time.

"Broken glass on the floor was a testament to the need for security.

"On two occasions, I found my car broken into and the stereo stolen.

"Since British Rail introduced CCTV the situation is much better."