CLOSED-circuit TV security cameras will finally operating in Bishop's Waltham next week after months of delay.

The equipment was installed during the summer, but a problem with the broadband connection that enables the cameras to be monitored meant there was a lengthy hold up.

Now Winchester City Council has confirmed that the cameras will be fully functional on Tuesday and improvements will be made to ensure that the technical problems don't happen again.

A council spokesman said: "It was a problem that we were working on and we've managed to sort it out now. The cameras will be fully operational by Tuesday and the further improvements will not interfere with that."

But the delay has infuriated residents who were upset that the cameras were not operating when the village centre jubilee clock was vandalised.

Parish council clerk, Sigrid Skellen, said: "It was such a shame that we didn't have it when the clock was vandalised. But we are hopeful that vandalism in the area will be diminished."

Winchester MP Mark Oaten, who has vented his frustrations over the delay in recent months, said he was pleased they would finally be able to monitor crime in the area more effectively.

He said: "I am disappointed it has taken so long but I am glad the end is in sight and hope that in the run-up to Christmas it will make Bishop's Waltham a safer place to work and shop."