CRIME has plummeted in North Yorkshire for the seventh year running with thousands fewer offences reported.

The annual British Crime Survey (BCS) showed that overall crime fell by 7.3 percent in 2010 – representing a drop of 3,255 crimes – with a total of 41,338 offences.

Burglary was down 6.9 per cent (398 crimes to 5,359 in total), vehicle crime was down 20.1 per cent (879 offences, with 3,497 in total) and criminal damage fell 19.7 per cent or 1,869 offences, with a total of 7,620.

Violent crimes were down by one per cent to 7,986 and of those, crimes with injury showed a reduction of 4.7 per cent (204 fewer offences, with 4,142 in total). Drug offences also dropped by two per cent.

There was a slight rise in the number of thefts (up by 75 crimes), robberies (up by 20) and sex offences (up by 25).

The Home Office Statistical Bulletin also showed that confidence in police to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour has risen from 50.6 per cent to 53.9 per cent since last year – placing the force 12th nationally and first in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Sue Cross said: “As an organisation that prides itself on year-on-year crime reductions, we are very pleased to report that crime has fallen by 7.3 per cent during this period.

“However, we will never become complacent and I can assure residents that robust action plans are in place to nip the rises that have occurred in the last month or so in the bud.

“I am also confident that the recent operational restructure and the adoption of a new shift system will enhance our capability and capacity to clamp down on crime and antisocial behaviour.” North Yorkshire Police Authority chairman, Councillor Jane Kenyon, said that, despite difficult financial times ahead the force and authority would continue to drive down crime.

She said: “Policing nationally is facing a number of challenges and over the past few years we have used the time available prior to the budget settlement to really scrutinise our key demands and working practises.”