SEX crimes across Cheshire last year rose by 29 per cent according to figures released by the Office of National Statistics(ONS).

The figures to the end of September 2015, saw drops in other crimes but violence against the person rose by 19 per cent.

The figures for sex offences were slightly down on the national picture for England and Wales which was recorded by the police as being up 36 per cent on the previous year; the equivalent to an additional 26,606 offences. The numbers of rapes (33,431) and other sexual offences (66,178) were at the highest level since the introduction of the National Crime Recording Standard in year ending March 2003.

As well as improvements in recording, this is also thought to reflect a greater willingness of victims to come forward to report such crimes.

In a statement a Cheshire Police spokeswoman said: "Cheshire Constabulary continues to raise awareness of the issue and encourage victims who have been affected by this type of crime to come forward - highlighting the work of the Dedicated Rape Unit (a specialist team of 31 officers who are responsible for investigating rape and sexual offences and providing vital support to victims – alongside support services)."

Meanwhile Cheshire Police claims it had seen the fifth largest reduction in reported crime across England and Wales to the end of September 2015.

According to the constabulary, it meant 584 fewer reported crimes – compared to the previous 12-month period.

It has also seen the biggest reduction in reported burglary offences in England and Wales which dropped 19 per cent, compared to a national average which showed a reduction of 6 per cent.

It claims that crime levels in the county continue to be at their lowest for the past 25 years.

The figures show reported reductions: vehicle offences, down 17 per cent; theft, down 12 per cent and robbery, down 5 per cent; drug offences down 3 per cent; criminal damage; down 2 per cent.

DCC Janette McCormick said: “Cheshire once again continues to see a reduction in crimes reported meaning fewer victims and greater confidence that we are delivering on our service commitments to local residents."