POLICE in Hester's Way say they are winning the war against criminals after a dramatic drop in offences this summer.

The number of crimes has been slashed by more than a fifth compared to last year, according to the latest figures.

Police put the results down to the tireless work of officers and have thanked the community for their efforts.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Sarah Simmons said: "This decrease in crime is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of all officers in the area. The team is working tirelessly to ensure that everyone who lives and works here feels safe from harm and remains confident in their local police.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank all the residents in Hester's Way who continue to support the work of their local policing team."

An average of 219.3 crimes were carried out in the Safer Community Team's (SCT) area per month over May, June and July this year, 22 per cent less than last year's 281.3.

The most dramatic drop has been seen in violent crimes, with a 26.8 per cent decrease, from an average of 47.3 to 34.7.

Sergeant Simmons also highlighted the work of officers in tackling anti-social behaviour, which has seen a drop of more than four per cent, from an average of 255.3 incidents per month to 244. The decrease comes after police launched a crackdown against such behaviour from young people earlier this year. As part of the scheme, youngsters can be handed anti-social behaviour warning notices that last for six months.

These can escalate to anti-social behaviour contracts and Asbo applications if they do not mend their ways.

The notice is combined with a home visit by police, who talk to the child and their parents about any problems.

Sergeant Simmons added: "The decrease in anti-social behaviour is a credit to the police community support officers who are engaging with the young people in the area."

The number of burglaries is down from an average of 38 to 37. This comes after a spike earlier this year when break-ins went up by 44.6 per cent from the beginning of March to the end of May compared to the previous year.