Crime down still further in Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood

Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood enjoyed the second highest crime reduction out of the four former divisional areas.

There were 3,397 less crimes in 2010/11 than the previous year - a 19% drop.

Violence against the person with injury was cut by 42%, down from 2,058 incidents to 1,203.

The area also saw a reduction in robbery (down 40%), criminal damage (down 28%) and vehicle crime (down 27%).

Drug offences have seen a 25% rise - a direct result of increased intelligence received from local people and a more proactive and targeted approach from police and partners.

Dwelling burglary has fallen by 29% which is said to be a result of stringent proactive work with the community.

Chief Superintendant Dave Wakelin, divisional commander for what was the Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood Division of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The figures show that fewer people endured the stress and trauma associated with being a victim of crime last year.

"In Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood, we have seen encouraging reductions in crimes like robbery and burglary.

“This is a direct result of the commitment and dedication of our officers and our partners to cut crime and to make the area a safer and more enjoyable place to live and work.

“We have seen a rise in drug offences across the board and this is largely attributed to increased proactive drug raids and improved communication with the people we serve – people are more confident in the police and are much more likely to come forward to us with information.

“While the annual crime figures are very encouraging, we will not become complacent and we are committed to maintaining this success and we will work tirelessly to ensure this continues.”

Nottinghamshire Police has been ranked as the number one force in the UK for reducing crime in 2010/11.

All crime across the county fell by 14% in the last financial year in comparison to 2009/10 – significantly above the national average of just under 5%.

This equates to 14,056 fewer incidents and the lowest level of crime recorded in the county for 30 years.

Since 1 April, the force has gone from four to two divisions. All four divisional areas saw crime fall.

Nottinghamshire Police has dispensed with its four division structure and has replaced with city and county divisions.

It was the former Mansfield and Ashfield division that witnessed the greatest fall in crime in 2010-11.