AN AGREEMENT has been reached to continue to run CCTV in Malton and Norton however further funding is required to secure its long-term future and prevent the system being confined to the 'history books'.

Ryedale District Council, which holds the line contract with BT, has now agreed to extend it after April 1, with the costs met by Ryedale Cameras in Action (RCIA).

Chairman Martin Dales, said it was an encouraging move and would enable the CCTV to move forward.

"We have enough in the kitty to continue going while we look at other ways or resourcing and running the CCTV system," he added.

"Funding is provided by the two town councils and originally funding also came from businesses, shops and pubs who benefit from the CCTV as well so now is the time to revisit where the money is coming from."

Mr Dales said the CCTV had been given some breathing space while other options for the location of the equipment was considered.

"There is the question of the relocation of Malton Police Station but there are other possibilities including linking the system to the police station in Scarborough," he added.

"Above all it is important that CCTV continues in Malton and Norton as it is a deterrent to criminals who make life difficult for local residents and businesses."

Inspector Andy Everitt, of Ryedale police, said: "No further funding is coming from Ryedale District Council and so the only option that Ryedale Cameras in Action have left is to use the remainder of their funds to pay back the cost of the next quarter’s CCTV BT line rental to Ryedale District Council.

He added: "If you take into account the cost of de-commissioning all 14 CCTV cameras in Malton, Norton and Pickering which will have to come out of RCIA funds then the charity is virtually broke and town centre CCTV in Ryedale will very shortly be confined to the history books."

A spokesperson for Ryedale District Council said : “As suggested by Ryedale Cameras in Action, Ryedale District Council will extend the contract on CCTV for Malton and Norton on a quarterly rolling basis subject to a full refund from Ryedale Cameras In Action.

"This arrangement will be in place whilst Ryedale Cameras In Action have the necessary funds available.”