CRIME figures have fallen in Devon – despite the county s police force revealing an increase in the number of car thefts. Police revealed the number of reported crimes in the county during 2008/09 had dropped by nine per cent compared with the previous ye

CRIME figures have fallen in Devon - despite the county's police force revealing an increase in the number of car thefts.

Police revealed the number of reported crimes in the county during 2008/09 had dropped by nine per cent compared with the previous year.

Latest police figures released last week showed a total of 50,698 incidents - a contrast to the 55,531 in 2007/08.

And, in terms of individual neighbourhood policing wards, crime rates in Topsham for March, April and May, have fallen compared with the same months last year.

The number of burglaries, however, increased from three to five in relation to the same quarter in 2008.

Meanwhile, the average number of crimes for Exmouth town has decreased from 96 to 83 incidents for the three months.

Chief Supt Jo Tennant, Devon BCU commander, was delighted with the reduction and said it was testament to the hard work and dedication of all staff.

"A co-ordinated approach between police, local authorities and all public services at a local level is really important and I have been impressed at the commitment to work in partnership.

"We are all aware there is still work to be done and always seek to improve the service the constabulary offers, but it is very heartening to mark this on going success."

Chief Supt Tennant, added: "We have made real progress in the last year in reducing crime, and our focus continues to be on giving the people of Devon the best possible policing service.