There were doubts over whether closed-circuit TV cameras would work on the Brighton estate of Whitehawk.

Some residents wondered whether the cameras, undoubtedly effective in shopping areas, would be a deterrent on a housing estate in a residential area.

But a review by Sussex Police has shown a striking success rate, with the number of incidents monitored in a year dropping by more than 200.

The number of crimes has reduced sharply during that time and, encouragingly, so has the incidence of vandalism and disturbance.

It is too soon to say crime has been cracked in an area that has seen more than its fair share of trouble during the years.

But the drop in crime has been one of the most startling in Sussex and there's no reason why the trend should not continue.

That's also because there are other measures in place, which are also working wonders in Whitehawk.

The play and adventure project in the summer has had a striking success in keeping bored youngsters off the street and out of trouble.

Community workers arranged by the New Deal scheme will also help to involve local people in the fight against crime and vandalism, rather than always leaving it to the police.

There have been many false dawns in the long history of Whitehawk. But this one really does promise to bring brighter days ahead.