Billericay has been given the go-ahead for a town centre CCTV system after seven years of campaigning.

Police and councillors have confirmed the town has been chosen as the next part of the district to have a 24-hour surveillance system installed.

Last month, Basildon Council announced that £50,000 would be set aside in next year's budget to fund improvements to a system which already covers parts of Wickford and Gloucester Park.

It is believed up to nine cameras will be installed at as yet unspecified locations in the town centre within a year to deter vandals and antsocial behaviour.