'WE will be watching you'.

That was the message from police as CCTV was installed on the troubled Egerton Court estate in Barrow for the first time.

The cameras, which have been funded by BAE Systems and the South Crime Safety Partnership, are placed facing the entrance and the opposite side of the court, providing full coverage of the area.

The new cameras will be monitored by Cumbria police in a bid to fight against crime and to ensure that residents feel safe.

The CCTV footage provides officers with crucial evidence and helps provide key investigative opportunities.

Inspector Jim Bailey said: “This is a great example of partnership work as well as working with local businesses to invest in the local community.

“Initial conversations we have had from the local community is that there has been a reduction in criminal activity since the cameras have been installed.

“The cameras will also help us monitor any criminal activity in the area but most importantly to keep the community safe."

Cllr Deborah Earl, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for local communities, said: “This is a fantastic example of working in partnership with the local community, local businesses and the police. The new CCTV will help reduce crime, make the local community feel safer, and help the police to monitor activity more effectively in the area.”

BAE Systems submarines human resources director Paul Ethell said: “We are really pleased to have been able to help with the introduction of CCTV in the local area and hope it will be of significant benefit to the local residents. We’re proud to support the community efforts being undertaken by Cumbria Police, Cumbria County Council and others on Barrow Island.”

Speaking of the progress within Egerton Court, Alison Meadows, a Cumbria County Council community development officer, said: “At the end of the month we will be setting up a tenants and residents group.

“They will be deciding what they would like to do with the area in the centre of the court.

“The Woodland Trust are going to give some free trees.”

County councillor Helen Wall said: “It is all about asking them what they want, rather than saying this is what you want."