SIDMOUH's CCTV system came a step closer this week following a £500 donation from the SVA.

SIDMOUH's CCTV system came a step closer this week following a £500 donation from the SVA.Former Chamber of Commerce Chairman Chris Taylor, who has led the WATCH campaign in conjunction with the Herald, received a cheque at the association's annual meeting.However, he did admit that plans had moved slowly: "CCTV will happen," he said, "I know it's taking a bit longer than we expected."Mr Taylor has previously met with various camera providers and concluded the system of choice was broadband and that was what was holding up the project.He added: "The hold-up is waiting for BT to get back to me, which shouldn't be too much longer. They have suggested they could help towards costs, including getting lines installed for broadband."I was told I would have an answer by the end of this month - the delay is because their accounts are drawn up in April.He said broadband was ideal because it enabled an image to be sent to a controlled web site by a radio rely."This is the best option for Sidmouth. Police could log on to it as long as they had a lap-top and password."Mr Taylor estimated a system to cover the town centre would cost about £60,000, and that £30,000 had already been raised.But, if BT couldn't help with the costs, the scheme was still viable: "We could still implement an effective system and cover large parts of the town centre."He said soon an appeal to local business to contribute would be issued and added: "Some businesses have already donated but I understand why some companies are holding back to see what the final cost will be."Sid Vale Association chairman Reverend Handel Bennett said the organisation was more than pleased to make a contribution.