CCTV cameras on a crime-hit housing estate have been upgraded to help cut levels of burglary, robbery and vandalism.

The surveillance equipment, on the St Raphael's Estate, in Harlesden, was refurbished by Brent Council after operators experienced problems tracking criminals in bad light and darkness.

Fourteen cameras in key business areas were updated as was digital DVR recording equipment in the borough's CCTV headquarters.

Councillor Hayley Matthews, lead member for community safety, said: "Brent Council is constantly finding new ways and technology to keep our borough safe and secure.

"By using the digital DVR recording system, we are getting a higher quality format to record crime and playback quicker to strengthen the deterrent of CCTV."

An emergency generator has also been placed in the control room, and the council's Community Safety Bus has been visiting businesses to give important advice about how to prevent crime.