A closed circuit television system which sparked controversy over its impact on century-old lime trees, is about to be switched on.

Conservationists hit out at the £128,000 system this summer, when it was revealed the trees, which are a feature of Skipton's wide High Street, faced being lopped to allow viewing space for the cameras.

But Mick Cartledge, Craven Council's head of economic and community development, said today the trees would remain untouched until the spring.

"We have decided to wait until the New Year to see where the trees are growing before they are trimmed,'' he said. "It means we can keep the trimming to a minimum."

Craven's Community Safety Partnership, at the forefront of the CCTV project, expect it to have an impact on theft, especially over the Christmas period.

The trees, which line both sides of the High Street, were planted in 1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee.

Mr Cartledge said the last of the cameras had been fitted and it was hoped to have a launch ceremony in two weeks.

"The only work that now remains is the final British Telecom link into the Harrogate CCTV monitoring centre, system testing and making final adjustments.

"If everything goes to plan with these final stages, the system should be live in two weeks time," he added.

Craven Community Safety Partnership won £128,000 from the Home Office to fund the bulk of the scheme. But it has also been financially supported by local businesses, including Lloyds TSB Bank, Sunwin House, the Red Lion Hotel, Clifford Benjamin, Pottery and Pine and Dalesway News.

Beryl Beresford, CCSP chairman, said: "The run up to Christmas is often a period when shoplifting and disorder in the town increases.

"But this year the police will have evidence for use after an incident."

Seven sycamore, seven ash and two elder trees along the banks of Eller beck in the town conservation area are to be felled to allow a camera a proper view into Coach Street car park. They are to be replaced by smaller trees and bushes.

The lime trees in High Street are owned by Skipton town council.