THE Home Office is to announce that Radcliffe has been successful in its bid for closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) following a nine-month wait.

The decision is expected to be made public on Tuesday (Aug 21).

And, Radcliffe's success is set to be shared by businesses and residents in Prestwich.

The local Community Safety Partnership (CSP), made up of police, council representatives, traders, residents and other interested parties, submitted a £1.2 million bid for eight cameras in Radcliffe and 21 cameras in Prestwich in December last year.

However, the Government grant is expected to be just short of the £1 million mark although Bury Council, it is understood, has promised to make up the shortfall.

Members of the Community Safety Partnership are keeping their fingers crossed until the Home Office officially goes public on the bid.

Chief Supt Phil Hollowood, the Bury divisional police commander and joint chairman of the CSP, said: "If our CCTV bid has been successful then it is great news for both Radcliffe and Prestwich. There has been an overwhelming case for both towns to be beneficiaries of this important Government funding.

"However, the champagne will remain on ice until the Home Office minister officially approves the proposal."