Crime is plummeting in Shropshire and West Mercia, according to latest figures, which claim that serious violent and sexual crimes are also on the wane.

There were nearly 2,000 fewer crimes in the last 12 months compared to the year before, Shropshire Policing Board said. The figures include 30 fewer incidents of serious violence and serious sexual assault offences.

There were 101 fewer serious injury assaults, 63 fewer household burglaries and 465 fewer burglaries from other buildings including sheds, lock-ups and industrial premises.

There has also been a four per cent reduction in reports of anti-social behaviour.

Shropshire Policing Board chairman Miles Kenny said West Mercia Police officers deserved great credit for the results.

He said: “Chief Superintendent Andy Rowsell and his whole team are to be congratulated in meeting the challenge we set, through the Joint Policing Plan, to make a difference to the people we serve.

“These results mean fewer victims of crime and a better quality of life for many Shropshire people.

“These results were not achieved by the police on their own. Local communities who raised their concerns and supported initiatives, as well as partner agencies who have worked with the police to tackle concerns are also to be congratulated on these results.

“A good example of this is the operation to tackle concerns of alcohol and anti- social behaviour in Shrewsbury town on Friday and Saturday night, which will be rolled out to market towns across Shropshire.”

Mr Kenny also highlighted an initiative to improve security and awareness for elderly people, as well as the South Shropshire Bike Safe campaign tackling speeding motorcyclists.

The Shropshire Policing Board is made up of West Mercia Police Authority members.

They meet quarterly with Chief Superintendent Rowsell to monitor delivery of the West Mercia Policing Plan.

By Wayne Beese