THE crime rate in Norfolk has fallen by 8.4pc, according to the latest figures from Norfolk police.This equates to 57 crimes per 1000 population - the best rate in eastern England and the lowest rate in England.

THE crime rate in Norfolk has fallen by 8.4pc, according to the latest figures from Norfolk police.

This equates to 57 crimes per 1000 population - the best rate in eastern England and the lowest rate in England.

For the period of October 1 2008 to 30 September 2009:

Overall violent crime fell by 2pc - a decrease of 183 offences

Dwelling burglaries rose by 15pc - 228 more crimes.

Robbery is up by 5pc- an increase of 14 crimes

Vandalism fell by 11pc- a fall of 1,473 crimes

Drugs offences fell by 13pc- a decrease of 292 offences

Vehicle crime fell by 14pc- a total decrease of 701 crimes

Detective Chief Superintendent Julian Blazeby said: “Norfolk is a safe county - in fact we continue to be the safest county in England with 57 crimes per 1,000 population. We have made significant reductions in criminal damage, drug offences and vehicle crime. There has been a small rise in acquisitive crime. This was anticipated not only in Norfolk but across the country as a result of the economic climate.