RECORDED crime in Devon and Cornwall leapt by nearly six per cent last year, figures out yesterday revealed.

Nearly 82,000 acts of lawlessness were logged in 2016 compared with 77,500 the year before.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Netherton said increased public confidence in police dealing with crime had led to a jump in reported matters.

He said: ‘We have worked hard as a force to improve our response in a number of key crime areas such as rape, sexual offences, modern slavery and domestic violence.’

He added: ‘In recent years we have seen a huge rise in both current and historic reporting in these areas – and I am encouraged that victims are finding the courage to come forward and reach out to us knowing that that they will be supported.’

And he promised: ‘No victim should suffer in silence. We will continue to work hard to support these people and to give a voice to each and every one of them, regardless if this sees a rise in our crime figures.’