RAPE has fallen in Worcestershire despite a rise in cases across West Mercia and a big rise in reported cases nationally.

Across the whole of West Mercia, rape offences rose by five per cent for the 12 months to June 2014, compared to the 12 months to June 2013 (up from 391 to 412).

However, offences in South Worcestershire dropped 27 per cent in the same period (from 108 to 79) although more recent data shows a rise (figures after June have yet to be published).

Nationally rape has risen by 29 per cent in England and Wales to 22,116 incidents in the year to June according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Statisticians have said it is down to the "Yewtree effect" after the Scotland yard investigation into Jimmy Savile and others.

Detective Superintendent Steve Cullen of West Mercia Police said: “Rape and serious sexual assaults are complex and emotive issues to investigate. West Mercia Police has specialist, experienced officers who understand the importance of working with partners to arrive at the right outcome for the victim.

“We recognise that sexual offences remain under reported to police for a range of reasons and it takes tremendous courage for a victim to come forward . Our aim is to give people the confidence to come forward to report these offences in the knowledge that their report will be fully investigated and they will be given the support they need."

Meanwhile, hate crime has also fallen in south Worcestershire, bucking the national trend which shows a rise. There were 290 cases in Worcestershire in 2013/14 compared to 339 the previous financial year.

However, national research shows that hate crimes are underreported.

The drop in reported offences locally is in contrast to national data which shows a five per cent increase in reports across the country (44,480, up from 42,236 the previous year).

Superintendent Neil Jamieson, Hate Crime Lead, said: “Hate crimes are different from many other types of offences in that we actually want to see an increase in reported incidents."

Hate crimes cover crimes committed out of hostility or prejudice on the grounds of race, religion or faith, sexual orientation, transgender identity, disability or individual characteristics that makes someone appear different.

Reports of hate crime in the West Mercia policing area fell 11 per cent in 2013/14, with 567 reported incidents, down from 638 in 2012/13.

To report rape or sexual assault, call West Mercia Police on 101 or in an emergency dial 999

Alternatively, people can speak to a support agency for help and advice such as Worcestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (WRSASC) on 01905 724514.