The statistics show people living in the region are now less likely to become a victim of personal crime than anywhere else in England and Wales.

The report reveals a 15 per cent drop in crime in the force area from last year, to a total 45,545 crimes. Across Wales, the decrease has been six per cent, and nine per cent across England and Wales taken together.

There was a 23 per cent reduction in the number of victims of violent crime against the person compared to 2006/07 and a reduction of nearly 28 per cent for vehicle crime.

Burglary is down by 11 per cent on last year and criminal damage is 13 per cent lower.

Overall, North Wales Police achieved a 40 per cent detection rate. This compares favourably with other forces, with only Dyfed-Powys topping North Wales' detection rates at 42 per cent, and Bedford showing the poorest detection rates at 22 per cent.

Speaking after the release of the figures, Assistant Chief Constable Ian Shannon said: "We are very proud to have achieved significant reductions in all crime and it is particularly pleasing to see reductions in serious crime.

"These improvements can only be achieved through the hard work and commitment of North Wales Police officers, police staff, and partner agencies working together.

"What is significant however is that today's survey reveals the public's perception of crime remains far higher than the actual reality and this is something that we are continuing to address. The statistics published today enforce our continued message that North Wales is one of the safest places to live, and the force is committed to making the area an even safer place for everyone."

The report published yesterday is based on statistics from the British Crime Survey (BCS) and police recorded crime data.

The figures also revealed that in 2007/08 there were 108 serious offences involving knives in the force area, out of the 22,151 crimes in this category committed across England and Wales.

North Wales Police remain committed to tackling knife crime, according to ACC Shannon.

He added: "As published figures demonstrate, knife crime in the force area is relatively rare and it is our intention to keep it that way.

"Knife crime has an enormous effect on everyone involved and we are determined to ensure that knives are kept off the streets and not used in criminal activity by anyone."

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