A firm of Bradford security specialists has won a contract to safeguard the Hatfield rail crash site.

Sixteen workers from Cerebus Security and Monitoring Ltd will remain at the site of last month's disaster for six weeks, protecting it from intruders while an extensive repair programme is carried out.

The company, based in Otley Road, Bradford, is renowned for its high-tech remote monitoring systems but also provides conventional patrol teams - which have been deployed at Hatfield.

Ceberus director Russell Todd said: "We provide security for numerous sites locally but we also operate on a national level with many major clients.

"A high profile contract like this is a big responsibility and winning it demonstrates how capable we are."

Sixteen staff will patrol the site around the clock until the repairs have been completed.

Four passengers died when their Leeds-bound high-speed train derailed.

The tragedy sparked a nationwide survey of Britain's rail network by Railtrack amid fears about cracked rails.

The company was called in to ensure curious individuals and 'trophy seekers' did not venture onto the site to take a look.

Aidi Todd, from Cerberus, said: "Our staff will be staying in the area for the duration of the contract."

The firm's managing director said the contract proved the value of West Yorkshire firms to the rest of country.

He said: "It just goes to show how Bradford companies can compete at a national level."