A PETITION calling for the introduction of CCTV in Ilkley has been presented to a full meeting of Bradford Council.

Ben Rhydding resident Lynn Wright spoke to councillors on Tuesday about the need for the installation of cameras, drawing on her experience of when her car was badly damaged whilst parked on The Grove. CCTV from a nearby jewellers shop enabled the vehicle which damaged her car to be identified.

She also raised the issue of cameras being needed to act as a tool for crime prevention in the town.

The petition had been available to sign in several town centre businesses and also online. It attracted around 200 signatures of support.

Ilkley is the only town in the Bradford district which does not have CCTV and its introduction has attracted widespread support from councillors and police.

PC Sam Hollings, Ilkley’s Early Intervention and Prevention officer, had been vocal in his support for CCTV and attended the council meeting to lend his support.

He said: "As a police officer, the starting point for many investigations now is digital images of suspects and their vehicles.

“The phrase ‘a picture paints a thousand words’ could not be closer to the truth where CCTV is concerned. There is incredible value in seeing crime and criminals as though one were present as a witness. CCTV gives an incredible amount of information to investigators.

“Couple this information with a coordinated and active response and you have a powerful tool for crime prevention and detection."

Cllr Anne Hawkesworth (Ind, Ilkley) also supported the petition. She said: "Quality CCTV is of great value. The night time economy and fewer police on the streets means that the camera is very important for detection and protection.”

Bradford Council referred the petition to the Executive committee.