Ticket inspectors on the Largs to Glasgow trainline are piloting new ‘body cameras’.

The aim of the 11-week pilot is to determine how useful the cameras are in reducing crime and improving safety for both staff and passengers.

ScotRail - now operated by Dutch company Abellio - introduced the technology believing it has the potential to further improve safety and security, in particular by helping deter anti-social behaviour.

A statement from Scotrail explained that the cameras would not be on permanently, with staff told to use it in situations where it could ‘help prevent, or document, incidents’. A yellow symbol will be visible on the front of the devices when video and audio is being recorded.

Jacqueline Dey, ScotRail’s operations and safety director, said: “While crime has fallen for ten consecutive years on Scotland’s railways, we’re determined to make rail travel feel even more comfortable for customers and staff.

“Body-worn cameras are one element of this ongoing commitment, and we are confident that customers will find them to be a reassuring presence.

“Following the trial, we will carefully review feedback from staff, customers and industry partners before taking decisions on the next steps for the technology.” Audio and video footage from the camera could potentially be used as evidence in court to allow all parties to see exactly what took place during an incident.

Chief Superintendent John McBride, Divisional Commander of the Scotland Division of British Transport Police, said: “BTP welcomes the initiative by ScotRail, which will further increase the safety and security of those who work and travel on Scotland’s rail network every day.

“Scotland’s railway is an extremely low crime environment and the chance of becoming a victim of crime is very small. Nonetheless, staff have the right to go about their duties without the threat of encountering anti-social behaviour of any kind.

“The cameras will be a useful additional tool in deterring anyone intent on behaving in an unacceptable manner, as well as providing vital prosecution evidence for the courts. The body-worn video cameras used by BTP in Scotland have already proven their worth in similar situations