Basildon's top policeman has insisted the town has a lot to be proud of - despite national figures which reveal an increase in reported crime.

The comparison between the April 1998 to March 1999 figures and for the same period the following year shows a 9.4 per cent rise in reported crimes.

This compares against a county average rise of 7.3 per cent and an increase of 10.4 per cent in Southend.

Superintendent Denis Sheppard said he was pleased with his division's work and cited the reduction in house break-ins, and thefts of and from vehicles as proof resources were being targeted to where they were most needed.

He said: "We follow the national trend of a rise in violent crime. But Basildon has a lot to be proud of. The police, local authority and residents are working together to make the town a safer place and it is having an impact.

"It is perceived that Basildon has a very high level of problems. However, if you compare us with Cheltenham or Bournemouth - places we think of as sedate - you will see we actually have fewer incidents of violent crime."

The latest national figures reveal a total of 1,270 incidents for Bournemouth and 1,466 for Cheltenham - compared to 1,138 in Basildon.

Supt Sheppard said the increase is partly down to the recording of crimes which never used to be included - such as harassment or common assault.

He added: "This is not to make excuses or deny there are areas we need to address, but the fact is we record more categories of crime than we used to. Some of the increase can be accounted for by that fact."

For Basildon the major crime issues are criminal damage, anti-social behaviour and violent crime - but it still fairs better than neighbouring Southend.

However, Supt Sheppard vows his officers will not be complacent.

He said: "We have been tackling anti-social behaviour with high visibility patrols and by confiscating booze from youngsters.

"We do have a real problem with underage drinking but that issue is part of a broader social problem.

"One of the many factors to consider is that it is too easy for youngsters to get hold of alcohol, and again it is an issue we are tackling, together with our partners."

By Carl Eve

Reporter's e-mail: carl.eve@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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