A NEW CCTV system is operating in a street in Melksham, following worries about trouble caused by young people.

The new system is operating in the Canon Square area of Melksham and has been set up as a direct response to fears from residents about anti-social behaviour and damage in Canon's Square, Church Street and Church Walk.

The initiative was led and funded by the Melksham and district community safety group. Financial support has also been given by Melksham Town Council and West Wiltshire Comm-unity Safety Partnership.

"The decision to set up the CCTV followed a meeting of Canon Square residents, town councillors, community leaders, police and members of the community safety group earlier this year," said Pippa McVeigh of the Melksham and district community safety group.

Although the camera is positioned to watch Canon Square, the streets around will also be targeted.

"The unit can be moved to other trouble spots in Melksham, if the need arises. It will concentrate at the moment on those areas which are of most concern," said Mrs McVeigh.

Earlier in the year, residents were plagued by nuisance crimes, including petty vandalism and criminal damage.

Melksham police inspector Marion Deegan has been considering the problems in Canon Square over the last 10 months. She said the cameras would help, but it was the community which could bring a stop to the problems.

"The cameras will hopefully act as a deterrent and provide the police with information. What we are hoping is that the cameras will be part of the community action against trouble," said Insp Deegan.