NEW security cameras have been installed at a former middle school following reports of anti-social behaviour.

Earlier this month, the Courant reported that police were investigating reports of a burglary at the former Hexham Middle School site.

County councillor for Hexham East, Suzanne Fairless-Aitken, said she raised the issue with Northumberland County Council, who has now paid to install the cameras.

Coun. Fairless-Aitken said she had been 'very angry that the site was not being looked after properly' and is 'really pleased' the cameras have now been installed.

"It will make it more secure," she said.

Hexham Middle School moved from its old building on Wanless Lane in the town to the existing Queen Elizabeth High School site in September last year.

Coun. Fairless-Aitken added: "In my opinion, Northumberland County Council are doing a really poor job of filling the building. I've tried very hard to get community groups in there.

"It's a beautiful building, it needs to be put to use."

The school building has recently been used as a filming location for a new film set in the North East in the 1980s.

"As soon as the BBC left, I knew there would be problems," said Coun. Fairless-Aitken.

She explained while nearby residents have rung police following acts of anti-social behaviour, the culprits had left before officers could get there.

"They couldn't do anything," she said.

A spokesman for Northumberland County Council said: "We are aware of anti-social behaviour taking place on this site and have installed a number of security cameras and have resident Guardians living on-site to act as a deterrent.

"We're also in discussion with a number of organisations around using the buildings in the short term."