HI-TECH spy cameras will be tackling yobs and robbers in a bid to bring peace of mind to a crime-riddled estate.

The £292,000 scheme will be switched on today after which eight cameras will be rolling 24 hours a day on the St Raphael's Estate near Wembley.

Residents have welcomed the move, especially as the estate harbours natural blindspots and cul-de-sacs, which make it difficult to patrol despite the deployment of two permanent police officers.

Brent Council and Brent police persuaded the Home Office to provide the funding following consultation with householders concerned about high levels of crime.

Cllr Richard Harrod said: "We want people to both feel safe and be safe. I am delighted that the system will go live today and add to the safety of the community."

Between November 2000 and November 2001 there were 288 recorded incidents of vehicle crime, 107 of street crime and 192 criminal damage incidents on St Raphael's. Drug dealing, car theft and anti-social behaviour were also high on the list of concerns held by residents on the estate.