AS FORMER independent inspectors of the Salisbury CCTV system, we know how professional and dedicated the CCTV operators are.

They are keeping an eye on the streets of Salisbury, Amesbury and Wilton including car parks and park and ride on a round-the-clock, 24/7 basis.

They are the eyes for the police and are therefore regularly contacting the police when incidents occur and also before they take place.

With the ever decreasing number of police patrolling the streets, how does Wiltshire Council think it is going to find enough kind-hearted volunteers to operate the system 24/7? It is unfair to expect volunteers to have the same level of dedication as paid professionals.

Wiltshire Council must also bear in mind that the operators are all trained, fully qualified and registered with the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which is a requirement for all security personnel, including CCTV operators and volunteers.

It was not many years ago that a night spot in Salisbury had to close down for a while because its security staff did not meet these requirements.

Wiltshire Council can have no special treatment.

According to the Journal, Wiltshire Council is trying to save £160,000 a year. This cost makes the CCTV system very economic policing.

How many police officers would £160,000 put on the streets of Salisbury, Amesbury and Wilton?

So, come on Wiltshire Council, let the trained and professional operators keep their jobs to enable this excellent asset to be operated professionally.

FORMER INDEPENDENT CCTV INSPECTORS FOR SALISBURY