A DROP in recorded crime figures has been welcomed by the region's police and crime commissioner.

West Mercia PCC John Campion praised the 2.4per cent year-on-year decrease announced by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The figures 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.

Mr 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.”