You’ve probably seen the CCTV cameras in Westbury and Warminster. But did you know that they are run by Warminster Town Council and funded largely by Warminster and Westbury Town Council?
About the CCTV system, Warminster Town Council say, “Warminster and Westbury CCTV partnership is overseen by a working group of representatives from Warminster Town Council, Westbury Town Council, Wiltshire Council, the Army, Wiltshire Police, West Wilts Trading Estate and local businesses.
“CCTV operates on many levels. It deters crime, it can prevent crime, it records crime so perpetrators can be caught, and it reassures the public. CCTV is still valued despite increases in other forms of recording – e.g. mobile phones and body cams.
“Because Warminster and Westbury CCTV cameras are monitored by highly trained staff and volunteers, they make a real impact in reducing crime.
“Operators are in contact with the police and local businesses so that they can work together to head off incidents, nip incidents in the bud and take swift follow up action if required. Whether its theft, shop lifting, assault, criminal damage, drunk and disorderly behaviour, illegal drug dealing or such like, criminals beware of CCTV.
“By cutting crime and anti-social behaviour, CCTV helps provide a safer town centre environment. A reduced fear of crime leads to people feeling safer going out, which means more people about, which means less crime.
“There is no doubt that the public accept CCTV as part of their daily lives. There is an expectation that to make the public feel safe we need the security of cameras. Warminster and Westbury CCTV ensure they observe codes of practice to operate the scheme in line, with good ethical practice and that it is not open to the abuse of individuals civil rights and privacy.
“If you are interested in becoming a volunteer CCTV operator, contact Warminster Town Council, Tel 01985 214847, email: admin@warminster-tc.gov.uk.”
