Most of the residents of Elgol, which has a population of about 100, have signed a petition demanding the camera's removal, The Scotsman reports. They say the Highland Council installed it without talking to the locals.

Melanie McKinnon said local children should be able to play on the beach without being under surveillance. She said tourists have concluded crime must be high in Elgol.

"On the first day the camera went up 10 people went into the shop to ask about crime levels in Elgol," she said. "It's embarrassing. People are asking whether it's safe to leave their cars. There hasn't been crime here in the 10 years I have lived here."

The council said the camera system, which cost $2,400, was put in because of complaints about unauthorized boats docking at the pier.