STATE of the art security cameras are being handed out in South Worcestershire for free in a bid to catch burglars.

Wychavon District Council and South Worcestershire Police are warning burglars to beware following its investment in the very latest home security cameras.

The devices are discrete, easy to install, sensitive to movement, record high quality images and sounds and show the times and dates of the recordings. This means burglars are likely to be identified and caught.

They are being given away for free, initially to victims of distraction burglaries or bogus callers, with priority going to elderly residents in the district.

Dave Hemming, Wychavon’s Community Safety Manager, said: “We have a dedicated budget for his type of home security initiative. This is just one of a number of ways we aim to keep vulnerable people in our communities safe, without making them feel like prisoners in their own homes.”

The move is part of Operation Protect, a whole week of activities that have recently been focusing on burglary.

PC Mike Stephenson, of South Worcestershire Police, said: “This is important work between Wychavon, the police and the wider Community Safety Partnership. By working together we can continue to provide help and reassurance to our most vulnerable residents through the provision of the very best security equipment.”

For more information or to enquire about getting a home security camera, contact Dave Hemming on 01386 565301 or email david.hemming@wychavon.gov.uk.