In a special thank you letter they described the dramatic results achieved by the cameras so far, noting: “a remarkable improvement in the standard of cleanliness in the lifts.”

They went on to explain: “Residents now feel happier to use the lifts and more secure in the knowledge that any anti-social or criminal behaviour will be recorded to assist the Police and other authorities in identifying those responsible.”

The residents originally asked for the CCTV coverage to help tackle a range of anti-social behaviour which made the lifts unpleasant to use.

When their request was fulfilled, and made such a noticeable difference, they were very keen to record their thanks.

They said: “We, the residents of the Queensway Estate are very grateful to those who played a part in facilitating the installation of these video cameras.”

Organisations involved in helping with this CCTV issue, included Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, South Essex Homes, Victoria Ward Councillors, Essex Police and the Southend Multi Agency Anti-Social behaviour Response Team (SMAART).

Residents continued: “The new cameras have made a significant improvement in the daily life of the residents on the Queensway Estate, and we would like to thank all those who gave their time and expertise towards this project.”

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, Councillor Lesley Salter said: “We were happy to work with the residents and support their efforts to put forward a practical solution to a difficult problem.

“We applaud the public-spirited way they joined together to help tackle the issue with various partner agencies, for the benefit of everyone on the estate.

“We are very pleased indeed that these CCTV cameras have already demonstrated such a positive effect.”

Anita McGinley, Anti-Social Behaviour Partnership Manager for South Essex Homes and SMAART said: “This was one of the solutions identified by the community circle.  The circle was specifically set up to tackle and resolve the anti social behaviour experienced by the residents on the Queensway Estate.  

“The circle set out to identify the problems and put forward solutions and I am happy to say that a number have been put in place.

“I am very pleased to hear that the CCTV has made a difference to the residents and look forward to continuing to work with the members of the community circle.”