All local police officers will be issued with body cameras as the busy Christmas period approaches

confirmed Gwent Police.

After an initial roll-out back in 2015, the body-worn cameras will now be available to all uniformed bobbies working in the Abergavenny and surrounding areas.

Following a successful trial of the new cameras in the Newport area, 1,400 devices have been rolled out force-wide, replacing existing technology.

The new cameras offer longer battery life and storage as well as covert filming capability and the ability to record 30 seconds of footage before the record button is even activated.

Chief Superintendent Marc Budden, who led the trial, said, "By issuing cameras to every front line member of the force, we will see an increase in the availability and quality of evidence which should increase the number of early guilty pleas and help to raise the satisfaction from our victims of crime and the wider public.

"While helping to protect the public, these cameras will also add an extra level of protection to our officers as they will be able to record offenders’ behaviour towards them.

"This time of year sees a lot more people out in our communities enjoying the festivities and should any incidents happen now, or at any time of the year, the public can be reassured that we are able to get a far clearer picture of events through the use of body-worn cameras."

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Gwent, Jeff Cuthbert said, ”These cameras not only help protect our police officers from wrongful accusations, but also help those who may feel aggrieved over the way they have been treated by the Police.

"This technology offers transparency and builds trust with the public whilst allowing officers to have an accurate and verifiable digital record of incidents.

"They’re a great asset for ensuring we provide the people of Gwent with an effective and efficient police service."

Body Worn Video Cameras, which are mounted visibly to clothing, have been successfully used by the Metropolitan Police Service and Hampshire Constabulary. Filming is incident-based, rather than on continuous loop, with the aim to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.