A TEAM that helps keep a watchful eye over Newquay and St Austell has received a prestigious award for helping keep people safe.

Newquay Town Council’s CCTV service based at Newquay Police Station has been honoured with a Superintendent’s Certificate from Devon and Cornwall Police for its professionalism and dedication to the community.

The citation read: “The CCTV camera operator’s involvement has played a significant part in most police investigations where CCTV evidence has been recorded.

“Every staff member acts on their own initiative to address issues and conduct research into prolific offenders.

“They are so dedicated to their role that they are able to recognise these prolific offenders and react accordingly. They all have a positive attitude and mindset and are dedicated to their work.

“The camera operators are an asset to Devon and Cornwall Police, their diligent monitoring, sharp observation skills, and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in supporting police and safeguarding the community.

“They often prevent crimes by identifying suspicious activity and their vigilant monitoring often leads to the apprehension of suspects or wanted individuals.

“As well as identifying prolific offenders they are also instrumental in locating vulnerable missing people and vehicles.

“The CCTV operators regularly have to observe some situations that can be difficult to watch, including CCTV of incidents such as suicidal people on a cliff edge or rewatch footage of fights and stabbings.

“For professionalism and dedication to the community, the Newquay CCTV service is awarded a Superintendent's Certificate.”

Mayor Drew Creek said: “Newquay Town Council’s CCTV team led by our CCTV manager give our residents and visitors a gold standard service.

“The CCTV service ensures our community is safe and has played a huge role in making Newquay the safest place to live in Cornwall given we have the lowest crime rates in the Duchy.

“Our teams work regularly contributes to helping the police solve and successfully prosecute crime. I could not be prouder of the team they truly are at the heart of this community, and I thank them personally on behalf of our town for all they do.”

A spokesperson for Newquay Town Council added: “A huge well‑done to the team for their continued commitment to keeping Newquay safe.”