CRIME in South Worcestershire has fallen, according to the latest statistics from West Mercia Constabulary.

Figures show reported crime between April to December dropped by 13.6 per cent between 2003 and 2004, which equates to 57 crimes per 1,000 people in the force area, which covers Worcester.

Violent crime fell by 8.8 per cent, domestic burglary by 12 per cent and vehicle crime 21.3 per cent.

Meanwhile, overall detection rates rose by 5.1 per cent. The number of violent crime offences resulting in a charge, caution or summons, has grown by 13.2 per cent to a record high of 75.5 per cent.

The findings were discussed at yesterday's meeting of the South Worcestershire Community Policing Board at the force's Hindlip headquarters, near Worcester.

"It is as a result of a combined effort between the community and police that crime is down," said John Cairns, the board chairman.

"We are not looking to rest on our laurels. We are looking to improve on these figures."

He added that despite these figures, West Mercia receives one of the lowest Government grants per head of population in the country.

Worcester MP Mike Foster said while there is still much to do, the figures showed in South Worcestershire the battle against crime is being won.

"These figures do not tell lies. They show the reality of life in Worcester," he said.

"We have more police than ever before, and locally, community support officers are helping to play a valuable role in achieving these cuts in crime.

"For me, the level of crime and anti-social behaviour is still too high, but we should be proud of the achievements by our local force."