NORTH Yorkshire Police has significantly improved in the way it records crime over the past 24 months, according to a new report.

Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) found that the force has implemented a variety of measures that have allowed it to dramatically increase the quality of its recording processes, as well as its overall recording rate.

An earlier report had identified problems with the way the force records crime, grading it "inadequate".

But it now records more than 92 per cent of all crimes reported to it - compared with just over 80 per cent during the 2017 inspection.

The force now records an additional 6,100 crimes each year.

The report found that North Yorkshire Police had successfully implemented an effective crime data plan, had improved recording of reports, and recorded more crimes within 24 hours of receiving the initial report.

HM Inspector of Constabulary Phil Gormley, commenting on the report, said: “The force has successfully implemented almost all of the recommendations resulting from our 2017 inspection.

"It has streamlined supervision and governance. It is gratifying to see the improvement.”

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “We are pleased to see some progress has been made by North Yorkshire Police, but it is worrying that some sexual offences against children have not been recorded.

“The viewing, downloading and creation of indecent images of children is an appalling crime, and it is vital that every instance is properly recorded by police. Furthermore, the NSPCC has long called for legislation to improve online safety for children through our Wild West Web campaign, and only by tough laws and police forces dedicating appropriate resources to tackling this repulsive trade, can we ensure children are properly protected online.”

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111. Adults concerned about children’s wellbeing or who want to find out how to report historic abuse can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 8005000.