It was such a simple idea. Station a police officer at the Clock Tower in the centre of Brighton every hour of every day of the year.

That officer has been instrumental in preventing minor offences, such as cars shooting across the lights.

However, the police presence has also cut down many major incidents in and around the Clock Tower, ranging from shoplifting to drug pushing.

People in the busy, bustling centre of Brighton know they only have to move a few yards if there is trouble and the officer will be there.

He or she can instantly call on reinforcements if an incident gets out of control.

It's been such a success that it could be repeated in other parts of Brighton and in cities up and down the UK.