Crime in Kingsbridge dropped in February by about 15 per cent, according to police figures.

A total of 33 crimes were committed in the town last month, compared to 39 crimes in February 2007.

Thirty-eight crimes had been recorded in January 2008.

The breakdown for February 2008 was as follows - car thefts 3, criminal damage to cars 7, burglary 4, theft/fraud 7, criminal damage 7, violent crime 4 and other offences 1.

Police said the figures fell because they were putting more effort into places with the most serious problems.

County Councillor Julian Brazil welcomed February's crime statistics. He said they highlighted the excellence of the local police force.

Meanwhile, more than 60 parking tickets were issued in Fore Street during February.

The low crime rate in Kingsbridge has resulted in the town having a reputation as one of the safest places to live in the Westcountry.

This has helped to attract new residents, especially pensioners, to the town, which, in turn, has pushed up local property prices.