MORE security cameras are being brought in at Bolton as security is stepped up at Bolton's bus and rail stations.

Extra cameras are to be fitted at both stations and will be monitored by staff at Bolton Town Hall's surveillance unit in a bid to reassure passengers and improve safety.

During the last five years there has been a spate of muggings, violent attacks and arson at Moor Lane bus station. Bolton councillor Guy Harkin, deputy chairman of the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, welcomed the improved use of CCTV cameras.

He said: "We want our bus stations to be safe and secure, and, just as importantly, for passengers to feel confident waiting for their bus in a safe environment. The CCTV systems already employed at some Greater Manchester bus stations have proved highly effective and I'm sure members of the public and workers using the bus station feel a lot more reassured just knowing that these places are on camera and being carefully monitored around the clock." Under the £30,000 scheme, cameras at the bus station and the bus and rail interchange, which is next to the Trinity Street train station, will be attached to fibre transmission cables, improving the quality of coverage and linking them to a special control room at the town hall, where they be monitored out of hours.

Cllr Harkin added: "Once a monitoring arrangement has been agreed with Bolton Council and the CCTV system is linked up, there will be much improved monitoring and I am sure that this upgrade will go a long way to deterring potential anti-social behaviour."