SPEED cameras are helping to drastically cut the number of accidents on Gwent roads.

Latest figures show there were 127 fewer accidents in the county at camera sites last year compared with the previous 12 months.

Accidents in which people were killed or seriously injured at camera sites have plummeted from 63 before the cameras were introduced to just 14 - across the region serious accidents fell from 343 to 251.

There was also a marked fall in the number of minor accidents from 1,700 to 1,499. At camera sites the accidents fell by 78 from 191 to 113.

The figures come from the Safety Camera Partnership that operates static and mobile cameras in Gwent, South Wales and Dyfed Powys.

The partnership says there is a larger percentage reduction in accidents at camera sites compared to stretches of road without them.

The controversial cameras generate thousands of pounds in fines every year, and some campaigners have claimed they do little to reduce accidents.

But John Rowling, project manager for the Mid and South Wales Safety Camera Partnership, said: "Since the Gwent force area joined the scheme in 2002, road collision fatalities have dropped by 14 per cent.

"By reducing speeds, we are improving the quality of life of those who live in areas where speed is a concern, and also freeing up local health service resources by easing the burden placed on the NHS by road traffic collisions.

"We are having a larger reduction in caualties and accidents at sites where there are cameras."

Chief Inspector Peter Fouweather said: "I am very pleased to see the obvious contribution and impact that the work of the partnership is making towards the reduction of casualties and collisions."

The safety camera partnership currently runs 11 static cameras and three traffic light cameras in Gwent. It is applying to expand its camera provision.

Current camera sites include Sirhowy, Oakdale, Caerwent, Langstone, Abersychan, Cwmbran and Pontypool.

There are a further four in Newport on Cardiff Road, George Street Bridge, Malpas Road and Kingsway.

Throughout the county there are 59 key mobile camera locations and seven mobile camera vans. Not all are operational at any one time.