RECORDED crime in West Mercia is decreasing year on year, new figures have revealed.

The figures, which show a 2.4 per cent decrease in overall crime, have been welcomed by the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Statistics from the Office of National Statistics also show reductions in violence with injury, drugs offences, burglary, robbery, sexual offences, public order, vehicle offences and theft.

Conversely to the national trend, cyber crime offences have fallen in West Mercia and there are low numbers of offences involving knives and other bladed weapons.

West Mercia Police says work will continue to ensure the force are able address some of the areas, where increases have been seen including offences relating to death and serious injury caused by unlawful driving, shoplifting and possession of weapons.

Commenting on the figures, Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I made a commitment to reform West Mercia Police and the latest crime figures show this approach is working.

"West Mercia is a place where people are safe and feel safe, and it is reassuring to see a decrease in the types of crimes which affect our communities the most.

"We are not complacent however and there are always areas to improve. I will continue to ensure the police can continue to work efficiently and effectively to tackle these."