A CITY'S closed circuit television (CCTV) network has undergone a revamp.

The 38-camera system in Sunderland has been upgraded thanks to a Home Office grant awarded to Sunderland Community Safety Partnership.

The system, which was first installed in 1994, now has top range cameras, monitors and recorders.

The equipment is faster, enabling officers to respond quickly to incidents. Recording has also been improved to give higher quality images.

CCTV is used with the Shopwatch radio link and Pubwatch, connecting more than 25 pubs and clubs in the city centre. It also links with the University of Sunderland's CCTV system to provide comprehensive camera coverage.

Northumbria Police Assistant Chief Constable John Scott said: "The CCTV system in Sunderland City has gone from strength to strength over the past eight years. It has proved to be a very useful policing tool, which helps officers to work more effectively in the community.

"Crimes caught on CCTV often result in those apprehended admitting the offence in court in the face of overwhelming evidence. This means swifter justice for all.''

Sunderland City Council leader Bob Symonds said: "The refurbishment of the CCTV control room is a testament to the continued good work of the Sunderland Community Safety Partnership.

"Our success in gaining Home Office funding is perhaps an indication of how highly our initiative is regarded nationally and can only help this latest move in our mission to make Sunderland an even safer place in which to live.''

During the past six months CCTV has helped officers to make 76 arrests for assault, 23 for vehicle crime, 10 for burglary, 52 for theft and 65 for alcohol-related incidents.