wrote:
On Wednesday, 6 June 2018 19:58:52 UTC+1, Cynic wrote:
We've got simple cctv cameras with IR illuminator around the lens up
at the local hall. Lately there's been a problem with boy racers
gathering after dark in the car park and antisocial behaviour ensues.

ANPR cameras can be hired, eg
https://www.mobilecctv.co.uk/anpr.php

although the cost may be more than buying one. Many police forces or
councils have raplid-deployment relocatable CCTV cameras. Possibly if you
involve local police liaison or councillors you might get them to put one
near the hall for a while.

Or if you have a local security business with one they might give you a free loan.

Otherwise if volunteers can remotely access the cameras and keep an eye,
on a rota, and call the police when something is happening, you may get a result.

Wildlife/trail/ trap cameras are a nice self contained package.
Some models can send images over the cellphone network though often at
lower resolution than the one stored on the on board memory card.
Most have an option to record a sequence of stills and/or some video.
Others have low visibility black IR illuminators so they are hard to spot
compared to the usual red glow which can be observed.
Some councils set them up in known flytipping spots hidden a tree etc so
presumably some models collect a good enough image of numberplates to be
useful.

Prices range from about £40 for a basic one to around £500 for something at
the top end.
I have to say the one from Lidl a few weeks back though basic and with
normal IR illuminators produces very good images for its around £80 cost
that stand comparison to the more expensive Little Acorn I also have.

GH