SOPHISTICATED security cameras are being used in the fight against anti-social behaviour in Otley Bus Station.

Police officers gathering evidence to issue Anti-Social Behaviour letters and orders (ASBOs) have been using evidence supplied by Metro.

Information recorded by Metro's 24 hour surveillance cameras has also been used as evidence to apply for a far reaching Dispersal Order - which has been shelved for the time being by police and the town council.

The control centre can also be contacted by any member of the public - concerned about unruly behaviour in the bus station.

A Metro spokesman said: "Police officers have worked closely with Metro targeting the people responsible for disorder within the bus station, and other areas.

"This involved them visiting the Metro Control Centre CCTV control centre, to gather documentary and CCTV evidence for use in obtaining Anti-Social Behaviour Orders, an exercise that considerably reduced anti-social behaviour."

Equipment at the bus station includes special zoom-in cameras, an emergency help point and a PA facility.

"When the police are informed of any disturbance in the bus station, the information should be relayed to Metro's 24-hour control centre so that our people can home in on it and gather evidence."

Images recorded on Metro equipment can be sent directly to the city council and to the police control.

The spokesman added that Metro's control centre could not only be used by the police, but members of the public could also contact it with reports of bad behaviour.

"The control centre is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and can be contacted by police officers and members of the public. On receipt of any call we can immediately record incidents and offenders."

l Metro's control centre can be contacted on (0113) 251 7431/433.