CRIMES are being detected quicker and better evidence captured thanks to improved communication between police and CCTV control rooms. The service, Airwave, is the national emergency services digital radio system used by the Constabulary. Facilities in

CRIMES are being detected quicker and better evidence captured thanks to improved communication between police and CCTV control rooms.

The service, Airwave, is the national emergency services digital radio system used by the Constabulary.

Facilities in North Herts have now been put in place to enable CCTV controllers to monitor police Airwave radio traffic and link up with police officers, special constables and police community support officers when required.

The new system has proved effective at tracing children reported missing, the early arrest of suspects at ongoing incidents and for monitoring incidents of public disorder prior to police arrival.

Chief Insp Tim Mitchell, of the county communications room, said: "As a result of the improvements CCTV controllers are picking up on incidents even more promptly and securing better video evidence.

"Officers are able to call up to the CCTV centres while they are still en route to incidents, asking what the controllers are seeing on camera and getting a better indication of what to expect on arrival.

"This also helps with officer safety and ensuring that an appropriate level of resources is dispatched to incidents.