North Kesteven remains safest area to live in for fourth year running

North Kesteven has retained its title as the safest place to live in England and Wales for a fourth year running.

Figures for the 12 months up to last April show that as a proportion of population size, there were fewer crimes committed in the area than anywhere else in the country, and Lincolnshire as a whole moved from the fifth safest county to fourth.

Crimes recorded include thefts, criminal damage, violence and public order offences, but excludes fraud.

Newly released National Crime Statistics show that during 2016-17 there were 26.1 crimes per 1,000 people in North Kesteven, which has a population of approximately 111,000 residents.

Lincolnshire recorded 50.3 crimes per 1,000 people over a population of 737,000.

The lowest in England and Wales was Dyfed Powys with 45.1 crimes per 1,000 people over a population of 515,000.

Absolute numbers of crime in North Kesteven:

• Theft offences 813
• Violence against the person 641
• Aggravated vehicle taking 1
• Robbery of a business property 1
• Homicide 0

Councillor Richard Wright, leader of North Kesteven District Council, said: “To be the safest place for a fourth year running is testament to the partners working to tackle crime and to the strong sense of community there is throughout the district.

“However, for every crime there is a victim and we cannot and will not rest on our laurels.

“There are improvements to be made but I am sure that with the continued support and determination, not only from our partners but from our residents as well, this can be achieved.”

Simon Outen, chief inspector for North Kesteven, said: “This is great news for residents and our officers who work tirelessly to ensure North Kesteven remains a safe place to live.”

Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones. Photo: Lincolnshire Reporter

Marc Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, said: “Of course it is pleasing to know that Lincolnshire remains one of the safest counties in England and Wales.

“It’s particularly admirable given the fact that we are one of the lowest funded areas for policing in the UK and that is testament to the dedication and commitment of those people who work to keep our communities safe.”