SHOP owners and residents are being urged to register their CCTV systems so the police could have more evidence if a crime is committed nearby.

And at the same time private camera owners are warned to make sure their equipment does not fall foul of the Data Protection Act.

Police in West Mercia say if a crime is committed in the vicinity of a known spy camera, they could contact the owner to see if their equipment recorded useful details for the investigation.

"Many small businesses now have CCTV and householders are increasingly installing systems as well," said Acting Detective Chief Inspector Sean Paley, speaking on behalf of the North Worcestershire Division.

"The police are doing an excellent job in North Worcestershire but cannot be everywhere at once, and CCTV can help a lot in making us all feel safer.

"There is no requirement for owners of CCTV systems to register with the police - it is on a purely voluntary basis," he added.

At the same time he also warned CCTV owners to ensure their camera complies with the Data Protection Act.

If it is not, the footage could leave the owner facing a fine and render it unusable by police.

For more information on the legal requirements of the Data Protection Act, log on to www.informationcommissioner.gov.uk or call 01625 545745 for advice.

To register cameras, owners of CCTV systems should contact 08457444 888