COVERT CCTV cameras will be used in a clampdown on fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour in Malvern.

Malvern Hills District Council street scene manager Gordon Morris said the new portable equipment, which cost £5,000, would be deployed in known trouble spots such as Priory Park, where drinking and vandalism are problems.

The council's four-strong Street Scene team will also be issued with personal belt cameras to catch offenders in the act.

"We're basically the eyes and ears of the council," said Mr Morris. "The personal cameras allow us to record conversations and images, so if a case did go to court we would have video evidence."

The CCTV system consists of three wireless cameras, to be located in different spots around a vulnerable area. They will give a continuous feed which is recorded and can be monitored at the press of a button.

Since February, the Street Scene team has issued 31 on-the-spot fixed penalty notices for offences such as dog fouling and litter dropping.

Mr Morris hopes the new equipment will eventually reduce the number of penalties issued, as people realise they can not get away with such behaviour.

"We don't have any targets to meet," he said. "Our role is more about education. If there comes a time when we don't have to issue any tickets, then I'll be a happy man."