Parking wardens will now use body-worn cameras after an increase in attacks on them.

East Sussex County Council said 22 parking enforcement officers were physically harmed or felt they were in serious danger last year and 19 were verbally abused.

The aim of the cameras is to capture incidents as they happen and deter people from becoming abusive in the first place.

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The footage will also be used to help police with investigations.

Councillor Claire Dowling, East Sussex County’s lead member for transport and environment, said: "Sadly these cameras are necessary due to the wholly unacceptable behaviour of a small number of motorists and members of the public.

"Parking enforcement officers should not have to face abuse, threats and violence whilst helping to keep our roads safe and clear for traffic, including emergency services who should not face delays getting to an emergency because of illegal parking.

"Hopefully the presence of a camera will deter people from becoming abusive but if it doesn’t, the footage captured will help the police take action against those responsible.

"The best way to avoid the frustration of receiving a penalty notice is to park within the restrictions.

"If you choose to become abusive to our civil enforcement officers because of your poor parking, you will face serious consequences."

The officers monitor car parks and parking across parts of East Sussex including Eastbourne and Hastings boroughs, Rother and Lewes.

Their job is to ensure people park properly to help reduce congestion and maintain traffic flow and access.

A council spokesman said: "In an ideal world all motorists would adhere to the restrictions and there would be no need for parking enforcement, but we know this is not the case.

"Enforcement is carried out to prevent the actions of these motorists having a harmful effect on our communities in as consistent and fair a way as possible.