BIG brother style cameras have been installed on Westlands to keep an eye on community life.

A closed circuit television (CCTV) camera was unveiled outside the estate's community centre, off Farmers Way, last Friday.

The £15,000 camera comes after calls from local organisations, businesses and residents who wanted extra security measures.

It was funded by Wychavon District Council, Worcestershire County Council, Spa Housing Association and West Mercia Constabulary.

At the official opening, traders, residents and town politicians could see what the camera picks up thanks to a large monitor on display.

The camera is connected to a CCTV room in Pershore, where operators liaise with town police and shopkeepers via a radio link.

It is the 25th camera to have been put in place throughout Wychavon to watch over the three towns of Droitwich Spa, Pershore and Evesham.

Westlands Community Association vice-chairman Eddie Briggs said: "It's great for everyone to see the camera is real and we are being watched."

Droitwich Spa town councillor John Cook (Lab, Droit.West) said: "I'm delighted that at long last CCTV cameras are in place.

"I hope the criminal element will realise they are being watched and people should feel safer, especially our elderly, when moving around the estate.

"I hope the camera will act as a deterrent to vandals who have plagued the area."

The equipment was unveiled by Wychavon's housing and economic development committee chairman, Cllr David Noyes (Con, Wickhamford).