CRIMINALS in Colne will now come under the watchful eye of the law 24 hours-a-day after the launch of Colne's CCTV system.

Fourteen cameras, costing more than £300,000, have been installed in locations across the town centre and went live yesterday.

The council secured funding for the system via the Government's Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and sponsorship from a number of local businesses.

Keith Lister, co-ordinator of Pendle Community Safety Partnership, said he was encouraged by the public and private partnership and hopes to extend this to further schemes.

He said: "CCTV in Nelson has proved to be very successful and has led to a number of arrests for criminal activity. It has also proved a source of reassurance to many shoppers.

"We expect similar results in Colne and I'm sure people will welcome this initiative. When funding allows, we would like to extend CCTV to Barrowford, Barnoldswick and Earby."

PC Dave Sykes, from Pennine Division's Crime Prevention Team said: "We welcome the introduction of Colne's new CCTV system. CCTV is a valuable weapon in the fight against crime, not only helping to deter offenders but also to identify them following incidents.

"Having help points and the facility for community radio users in Colne to speak directly to the CCTV control room will make this system even more effective. It's good news for residents and visitors, but not such good news for would-be offenders."

Inspector Martin Holleran, in charge of policing in Colne, said: "I'm delighted that CCTV is being launched here. I'm sure that it will provide reassurance to members of the public and be a great tool to assist against crime and all anti-social behaviour. We have worked closely with the council over a number of years to bring this scheme in.

"PC Phil Davies, the community beat manager for the town centre and retail parks, has developed a good relationship with all the parties involved. His work with local shops on the radio scheme will enhance the effectiveness of the CCTV and I look forward to crime and nuisance reduction as well as catching criminals by its use."