SPY cameras will be fitted to bus shelters to cut down on crime.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive is joining forces with councils, police and the advertising firm JC Decaux, which makes many of the shelters, to invest thousands in the scheme in the hope it will keep thugs and vandals at bay.

The miniature cameras can be removed and re-installed at different stops.

Eight will be fitted to six bus stops in Manchester.

Bolton, Bury and Wigan have four of the é2,500 systems.

The other six authorities in Greater Manchester have two each.

The decision was taken to install CCTV in bus shelters across Greater Manchester follows similar projects in Salford, Lancashire and West Yorkshire which have been successful in curbing crime.

Footage from the cameras has been used to convict offenders of assault, robbery, theft and damaging cars, as well as for vandalism to shelters.

GMPTE's Strategy Director Keith Howcroft said: "Vandalism to bus shelters causes a massive nuisance to bus passengers and can put off some people from using public transport altogether.

"We are currently deciding which bus shelters are in most need of having CCTV installed and will be fitting the cameras in the next few weeks.

"It's vital that people feel safe and secure while they wait for a bus and I'm sure that this initiative will help to achieve that."

Mr Howcroft added: "I'm delighted that we've been able to work with the police, local authorities and JC Decaux to tackle this issue.

"I would urge anyone who witnesses criminal behaviour at bus shelters to contact the police immediately or to report vandalised shelters to us."

Vandalised stops and shelters can be reported to GMPTE by calling 0161 242 6960.