Mark Bensted, of British Waterways, said the work was carried out "to reduce anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime around the popular Camden Lock area".

"We have created something which... will help make Camden a safer place to live, work and visit, encouraging more people to use the canal for walking, cycling, fishing and boating," he said.

The lights use subtle programmes of gradual movement and are strong enough to light the area safely and provide a clear image for the CCTV cameras.