INCIDENTS of reported crime in Merseyside have increased by more than seven percent over the last year.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics show increases in violent crime and robberies.

There was also an increase in reporting of sexual offences, which is in line with the national trend.

There have been reductions in burglary, drug offences, vehicle crime and possession of offensive weapons.

Non-domestic burglaries also fell by 8.4% and vehicle crime is down by 1.7%, compared to a national increase of 11.2 per cent in vehicle-related theft.

Overall crime has increased in Merseyside by 7.5%, below the national average of 11.1%.

Merseyside's deputy chief constable Carl Foulkes said: "We will always do what we can to prevent crime and protect our communities, but we also have many other priorities including combatting anti-social behaviour, dealing with vulnerable victims and targeting organised criminals, work that isn't always represented in crime statistics.

"Although overall crime in Merseyside has gone up, this has been significantly less than the national average and I am pleased to see a reduction in burglary, vehicle crime and drugs offences.

"There has been increases in the levels of recorded violent crime - in line with the majority of other forces who have recorded a rise - which is representative of the way in which violent offences of all classifications are now being recorded by Merseyside Police and does not reflect a genuine increase in non-domestic violence.

"As well as improvements in recording it also reflects a willingness of victims to come forward and evidence has shown that a number of high-profile national operations have changed the public perception of and confidence in reporting this type of crime.

"Everyone at Merseyside Police is absolutely committed to make every effort to reduce crimes of all types, while delivering an excellent policing service to the people of Merseyside.

"We continue to listen to the concerns of the public and are advancing our fight against serious and organised crime and supporting and protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities.

"Our officers are dedicated to responding to incidents with courage, courtesy and professionalism, which we hope will build upon strong public confidence to keep our communities safe.

"We recognise that we cannot be complacent and will continue to strive to find the most efficient and cost effective way to deliver policing in Merseyside."