RESIDENTS in Christchurch fear crime is on the rise despite figures which show incidents are falling.

The latest figures for the borough’s total crime from April to December 2014 show there were nine per cent fewer incidents than the previous year.

However, domestic abuse crimes, rape and serious sexual offences went up.

And despite the overall fall, a survey of residents, carried out by Dorset Police, shows 23 per cent of them felt the amount of crime had gone up.

Only 12 per cent felt it had gone down.

From April to December 2014, Christchurch experienced 123 fewer crimes than in the same period in 2013.

Domestic burglary, theft from vehicles and robbery were 23 per cent down while burglaries from sheds, garages and beach huts were 25 per cent lower. Twelve per cent fewer incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported.

Bernie Davis, portfolio holder for community at Christchurch council, a former police officer himself, said: “We live in a very safe part of the country and, thankfully, crime is very rare.

“However, though the figures are relatively low, it’s very disturbing to hear about the rise in domestic abuse and sexual offences.

“Of course, well-publicised national cases have meant that confidence that these cases are being taken seriously has had an effect and we are seeing an increase in these crimes being reported. This is perceived as being positive given we know this is a ‘hidden crime’.

“It’s also disturbing to hear that, although crime is going down, there is still a general perception that it is on the rise.

“It’s difficult to know why this should be when Christchurch is such a safe place. If anyone has any concerns then they can talk to our Community Protection team at the council by calling 01202 795000.”