CRIME in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight fell 12 per cent in the last year, according to new figures.

Recorded crime figures published by the Office for National Statistics show that between July 2012 and June 2013 there were 103,977 offences reported to the constabulary.

Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: “The figures are a welcome reminder that our efforts to deliver an excellent service to people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are producing results; they are testament to the commitment of all my officers and staff who are dedicated to protecting the communities they serve.

“We are all working harder and smarter to engage with our communities and continue to encourage them to report crime and anti-social behaviour.

“Initiatives such as Operation Fortress, the campaign to tackle the harm caused by drug-related violence in Southampton, demonstrate what we can achieve by introducing new ways of working.

“By working more closely with our partners on enforcement operations, for example, we have been able to provide support for vulnerable people affected by drug use and therefore work towards our shared long term aims of reducing the demand for drugs and helping to rebuild communities.

“There remain significant challenges ahead, however, which is why earlier this week I announced plans to prepare the organisation for the future which will help us to protect vital policing services to the public in coming years.”