Statistics just released by the neighbourhood policing team show crime has plummeted by 38 per cent in Ravensthorpe and seen an eight per cent drop in North Bretton.

Although South Bretton shows a slight increase in crime, it is only four additional incidents.

Westwood and Ravensthorpe police community support officer (PCSO) Julia Harrison said the team believed that working together as a community benefits everyone.

She added: "Recent figures show we are working efficiently and successfully to help reduce crime in the area, and improvements have been seen across the board with a few exceptions."

The number of burglaries has gone down from 35 to 24 over the period April to July with non-dwelling burglaries down by 80 per cent.

PCSO Harrison added: "It shows being more security conscious has really paid off, so keep up the good work."

Safety warnings have also been heeded when it comes to cars and vans – with thefts of vehicles and theft from vehicles seeing huge decreases.

Criminal damage reports have more than halved, but anti-social behaviour has seen its usual seasonal increase.

PCSO Harrison added: "The really good news here, if you were not aware, is that following the recent panel meeting, a priority has been set to tackle the anti-social behaviour in Westwood and Ravensthorpe and most particularly the area around the Hampton Court Shopping Centre."

Bretton has seen a slight increase in dwelling burglaries.

Pc Mike Jackman said: "We are only dealing with low figures here, but clearly one dwelling burglary is one too many.

"I'm sure many of people saw an article in The Evening Telegraph a short time ago regarding the apprehension of a burglar caught in the act in Bretton. And I would urge all residents to be on the look out and, if unsure, call the police."

Violent crime saw a reduction of more than 35 per cent in North Bretton and 90 per cent in the South Bretton.

However, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour did see large increases, which is often a seasonal trend.

Pc Jackman added: "We have our hands full here in Bretton, but continue to provide a first class service to all our residents, continuing to make Bretton a safe place to work, visit and live.

"But if you don't report it, we don't get to hear about it. It's your neighbourhood, let's work together and move forward.

"If you would like to contact a member of your local policing team, you can always catch us when out and about on our push bikes or alternatively, call 0845 456 4564 and ask to be put through to individual you would like to speak with."