POLICE in the Seaham area of east Durham have reported a 15 per cent reduction in crime over the last year.

Seaham Community Inspector Vince Addison said: "As we approach the end of the financial year, this is a good time to reflect upon some key areas of performance.

"There was a 15 per cent reduction in crime over the last year and the previous year’s reduction was 10 per cent - meaning 850 fewer victims that two years ago.

"The overall detection rate was very good, at 32 per cent. Last year it was 29 per cent and 25 per cent the year before.

"The dwelling burglary detection rate is an excellent 26 per cent."

Insp Addison said in the most recent confidence survey, 63 per cent of respondents were confident police were dealing with the issues that mattered to them.

The force’s top rating was 64 per cent - in Chester-le-Street.

He said: "Our town and villages are safer. The crime levels show that and the confidence level shows that our communities are noticing the difference."