CCTV cameras should be installed by the end of the summer in a town which has been described as an easy target for burglars.

Adrian Busby, president of Beaconsfield Chamber of Commerce which is behind the scheme, said the imminent installation of CCTV should help improve security.

He said: "There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that CCTV is a deterrent."

Shopkeeper Andre De Marsac, former head of the chamber, whose jewellery store in Burkes Court has been targeted by thieves 14 times in 12 years, said he welcomed the introduction of cameras.

Mr De Marsac was subjected to a violent attack in September 1993, by three hooded men with a sledgehammer.

He needed surgery to a finger which doctors almost had to amputate.

He said: "Seeing as I got the original £115,000 for the scheme I'm very happy that they are using some of the money that I was able to gain for the town to put towards CCTV.

"I would certainly welcome CCTV in Beaconsfield from a community point of view as a way for police to gather more information on all crime."

Sgt Gerry Lister, of Beaconsfield Police, said: "We need the same deterrent that so many other towns in the area have and that is CCTV."

Police charged Lee Dunn, 21, of Reading, with attempted burglary after an alleged incident at the jewellers at 3.45pm on Saturday.