CCTV security cameras could soon be used in Pewsey and Marlborough to combat the growing problem of shoplifting.

The use of security television cameras, already proving successful in Chippenham, has taken a step forward with the commissioning of a feasibility study.

Marlborough and Pewsey will be among five communities to benefit if the Kennet Safety Partnership does decide to introduce closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras.

The scheme will also mean street cameras in Devizes town centre, and at Tidworth and Ludgershall.

Police and traders in Marlborough and Pewsey have welcomed the idea of having the spy cameras monitoring the shopping areas.

In Marlborough cameras could be installed in The Parade, High Street, Hillier's Yard and Hughenden Yard.

In Pewsey the likely locations for the cameras will be in the High Street, Market Place and North Street.

Insp Bill Dowling, the Marlborough and Pewsey area police commander, said he is delighted the safety partnership, which involves the police, Wiltshire County Council and Kennet District Council, has agreed to move forward to a feasibility study.

He said: "Yes we do live in a low crime area, but in order to maintain that and try to reduce crime even further, we need to come on board with CCTV."

Insp Dowling said the schemes already up and running in places like Swindon, Salisbury and Wootton Bassett had proved they are a vital aid to not only fighting crime, but also deterring crime including town centre vandalism.

He said he envisages between eight and ten cameras will be needed to cover the main shopping centre in Marlborough.

In Pewsey, it is believed half a dozen cameras would cover the prime shopping areas including the Co-op car park area and also the Bouverie Hall car park.

Insp Dowling said: "This is part of what the feasibility is study is about.

"It will come up with recommendations on whether the scheme can be put into effect, how many cameras will be needed, and how much the whole scheme for the five communities will cost."

The Government has made £100m available for CCTV schemes, but so far there has been very little take-up.

Communities including the Kennet Safety Partnership have until December 22 to make an initial application for Government money.

Insp Dowling said once the feasibility of schemes has been established, talks would take place with local organisations including the Marlborough and Pewsey chambers of commerce.

He said it also has to be decided where the best place would be for a control centre and whether it would be better to set up an independent one for the Kennet communities, or use an existing centre.

The safety partnership will also be talking to Sarsen Housing Association about the possibility of sharing its Lifeline control room.

Wherever the control centre is based, it will have direct links with Police Headquarters in London Road, Devizes, and the joint police, ambulance and fire brigade control room.