THE Home Office is set to announce that Prestwich has been successful in its bid for closed circuit television cameras (CCTV).

After a nine-month wait, the decision is expected to be made public on Tuesday (21).

And Prestwich's success is set to be shared by businesses and residents in Radcliffe.

The local Community Safety Partnership, made up of police, council representatives, traders, residents and other interested parties, submitted a £1.2 million bid for 21 cameras to be sited at "hot spots" in Prestwich as well as in the St Mary's and Sedgley areas. A further eight cameras will be installed to cover Radcliffe town centre.

However, the Bury Times can reveal that the Government grant is expected to be just short of the £1 million mark, around £900,000, although Bury Council has, it is understood, promised to make up the shortfall.

Members of the Community Safety Partnership are keeping their fingers crossed until the Home Office makes the official announcement next week.

Chief Superintendent Phil Hollowood, the divisional commander of Bury Police and joint chairman of the CSP, said: "If our CCTV bid has been successful then it is great news for both Prestwich and Radcliffe.

"There has been an overwhelming case for both towns to be beneficiaries of this important Government funding.

"However, the champagne will remain on ice until the Home Office minister officially approves the proposal."