Domestic burglary and theft from a person have fallen by almost 60% whilst vehicle thefts, and fraud and forgery, have fallen by 44% and 45% respectively. Overall there has been a 24% decrease in criminal activity compared to last year.

This follows a fall of just under 20% in 2007 crime levels.

These figures, obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by Holgate councillor James Alexander, reveal there has been a sharp downward trend in criminal activity in recent years.

Coun. Alexander welcomed the news:

"I was very pleased with the fall in crime last year. That it has been followed by an even greater decline this year exceeds all my expectations. Two years ago Holgate was one of the problem areas in which crime had risen against the general trend in North Yorkshire. I am glad that this state of affairs has been reversed."

Coun. Alexander will soon be joining local police on patrol in Holgate.

"Seeing for myself the good work that the Holgate team does seems more important now than ever" he said. "The falling crime levels prove that the Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) have been doing an excellent job; the Sergeant's efforts and those of the rest of the team should be recognised".

Coun. Alexander also publicised the SNT helpline, saying:

"Any member of the public interested in the SNT's work can call 0845 6060247 for more information. I would also like to appeal to Holgate residents to use this number to report any problems to the SNT as it is only with the public's co-operation that the team will be able to seriously tackle the threat to local communities posed by criminals".