Fordingbridge gets first CCTV camera to tackle rural crime

CCTV has been installed in a town for the first time in an effort to tackle rural crime.

The camera is being trialled on the High Street in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, for four weeks.

Infrared technology will ensure footage captured at night is enhanced.

If the trial is successful, cameras could also be installed in other areas without CCTV, including Fawley, Brockenhurst and Bransgore, New Forest District Council said.

It is part of the authority's £300,000 investment into expanding the district's CCTV network - funding which includes money from the Home Office Safer Streets Fund.

The scheme aims to help maintain low crime levels in rural communities, according to Dan Poole, the council's portfolio holder for community, safety and wellbeing.