Cleveland Police are spearheading the latest trial of a miniature camera that captures in colour and sound the scenes officers are confronted with when they arrive at a call out.

The tiny cameras are clipped to headgear and relay information to a small screen that clips to uniforms.

Similar trials in other parts of the country have resulted in crime being cut, an increase in successful prosecutions at court and a fall in the number of complaints against officers. About 30 cameras will be used in the force, initially in the Redcar and Middlesbrough districts.

Chief Inspector Andy McDyer said: "The cameras will be used openly and will be targeted at anti-social behaviour, alcohol related incidents around pubs and clubs and for domestic violence. They provide crystal-clear pictures and sound and the battery has enough power for them to run for 12 hours."

l The financial turnaround of Cleveland Police has been confirmed with plans to have a record number of officers on the beat. An additional 130 crime-fighter posts have been agreed by Cleveland Police Authority as the force continues its reversal of fortunes. Three years ago a £7.3m black hole was discovered but now reserves, which reached a low of just £172,000 in March 2003, stand at £10.3m.