BOAT owners along the south coast are turning to new technology in the fight against crime.

New research shows increasing numbers of sailing fans are using CCTV cameras to keep an eye on their assets.

More than 80 per cent of those questioned in a survey said that crime or the fear of crime was of mounting concern, and that incidents of theft and vandalism were on the increase.

While the majority felt security was primarily the responsibility of the marina management, one in ten were actively taking action to secure their boat.

The research, conducted by security specialists First Watch, set out to assess the market for more innovative means of securing property and valuables within a marina environment.

This included using CCTV cameras and combining them with new remote monitoring capability, allowing owners to "see" their boat via the Internet from anywhere in the world.

More than a quarter of those questioned said they were actively reviewing their current security arrangements and would consider using new technology.

Nearly half liked the idea of being able to see their boat any time of the day or night to ensure it was secure.

The new camera system is being pioneered for First Watch by Sirrus, a UK manufacturer which specialises in remote vision systems in a wide range of industries.

Paul Davey, Sirrus' managing director, said: "The owners we surveyed are clearly concerned about security and are prepared to match their concerns with an investment in new technology.

"In terms of security, the benefits are obvious, allowing owners total peace of mind. But the system also has advantages from a simple maintenance perspective, ensuring that the boat hasn't slipped its mooring in rough weather, or lost its canopy."