Data released by the Official for National Statistics, shows the Force has reversed a previous rise in crime in just six months.

Dorset how has the eighth lowest crime rate in England and Wales.

This decrease comes against a national rise of 1.4 per cent and marks an improved turnaround from similar figures last September, which showed a rise of two per cent in recorded crime.

DCC David Lewis said, “We have made good progress, but we know that every crime matters to our communities so we will continue to focus on driving down crime and providing an outstanding service to the people of Dorset, particularly the most vulnerable members of our communities.”

However, there are two areas where offences increased in the 12 months up until the end of March.

Violence against the person rose 2.9 per cent, compared to a 6.7 per cent rise nationally, while violence with injury dropped 3.7 per cent, better than the national average, which was down 1.2 per cent.

Vehicle offences were up 10.7 per cent.