TOWN CENTRE safety has received a welcome boost in Melksham with an agreement to provide an extra security camera.

Melksham Town Council is to install a third CCTV in Market Place to give 24-hour coverage along much of the High Street. The system will complement the two other cameras based elsewhere in the town centre.

The Melksham 1st partnership was consulted on the plans and gave its full support. Chairman and local councillor Adrienne Westbrook said: "Local shopkeepers and residents have been alarmed by an upsurge in late-night vandalism, resulting in broken windows and other damage.

"A further camera will help in the apprehension and conviction of those responsible."

John Stewart, landlord of The Tavern, in Market Place, has also welcomed the news.

He said: "We have our own CCTV cameras both inside and outside our premises and they have proven to be a valuable but unobtrusive tool in monitoring behaviour and deterring trouble.

"But, our cover only extends to the middle of the road, which means there is no safeguard against incidents elsewhere in the Market Place.

"This new funding will help to plug this gap in security cover and make the town centre a safer place.

"Both Melksham Town Council and Melksham 1st are to be congratulated for recognising this problem and taking positive action to solve it."

The success of the Melksham 1st group has been such that a recent advertisement for a new community planning co-ordinator has already attracted around 50 applications.

The group's aim is to improve the social, environmental, economic and cultural quality of life for everyone in Melksham.

New members are always welcome.

Call Cllr Westbrook on (01225) 704584.