THE amount of crime being recorded in the Avon and Somerset area is at an all- time low according to figures released by the Office for National Statistics.

Incidents of antisocial behaviour as well as crimes including criminal damage, robbery, theft, public order offences and violence against the person have all fallen, with the total recorded crime reducing by 14 per cent compared with 2011/12.

This follows a national trend which has seen crime across England and Wales reduce by seven per cent in the year leading to March 2013.

In North Somerset, one of the main issues being targeted by officers has been antisocial behaviour (ASB) and this will continue as they work with youngsters over the summer break.

Across Avon and Somerset, the number of ASB incidents recorded last year was 66,327 compared with 80,591 the year before and a staggering 103,561 in 2007/08.

Chief Inspector for the North Somerset area, Alex Cohen, said: “The figures show what we have known for a long time – that crime has been falling for many years and is at an all-time low in Avon and Somerset.

“We know we still have a lot to do and continue to focus on the four main priorities of antisocial behaviour, burglary, violence against women and children and victims.

“We are also keen to encourage the reporting of typically under-reported crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual offences.

“In North Somerset, there is a lot of good work going on to try to tackle some of the causes of antisocial behaviour, much of which focuses on engaging with young people, giving them something to do and preventing them from getting into trouble. For example, this summer neighbourhood police officers and PCSOs will be carrying collectable cards, which have been co-designed by local children, which carry crime prevention and personal safety messages.

“While ASB is down, we are still keen to encourage people to report any problems they’re having and so we are holding weekly drop-in sessions at the Town Hall in Weston where people can get advice and support.

“Criminal damage falls into this category, so, issues such as graffiti, windows being smashed, cars being damaged, or a fence post being broken can all be classed as ASB.

“If it’s not a criminal matter, then we can work with our partners in North Somerset Council and Alliance Homes among others, to try to resolve local issues.”

Weekly drop-in sessions at the Town Hall in Walliscote Grove Road begin on Tuesday and will run from 10am to noon.