A retired PCSO who focused all his efforts on getting a new CCTV camera installed in his village was today invited to see it finally unveiled.
John Taylor joined local councillors earlier this morning (21) to see Calverton’s newest CCTV camera being put into place.
The ex-policeman has campaigned for over three years to have a new camera put in at the junction of Flatts Lane and Collyer Road in Calverton, after it was identified as a problem area.
This will be the second camera installed in the village by Gedling Borough Council and will be used to detect and prevent crime. It has the ability to pan sideways, move up and down and zoom.
Recorded images are transmitted to a control room in Arnold, where operators have a direct link to contact Police and work closely with the council’s Neighbourhood Wardens, who carry out regular patrols in the village.
Mr Taylor worked with the parish council, schools and community centres to improve safety and created a strong link between the public and local police during his time as a PCSO.
A hotspot for shoplifting was identified around the Co-op on Flatts Lane and after speaking to locals, Mr Taylor saw that people were keen for a CCTV camera in that location.
Community Protection Manager Kevin Nealon, who worked with Mr Taylor through the police, remained in contact with him and promised he would have the honour of unveiling the new camera once it was fitted – a promise he has kept.
Mr Taylor said: “Working in Calverton was the highlight of my career thanks to the receptive residents and the way the community worked together on safety issues.
“I’m really pleased the camera has been installed and want to thank colleagues who worked with me to make this happen. It’s a pleasure to be at the unveiling!”
Cllr John Clarke, Leader of Gedling Borough Council said “It’s great that the camera has been installed in this area thanks to John’s work as a PCSO. We hope that this security tool will make residents feel safer and deter people from crime.”
