CRIME is down in South Yorkshire for the sixth year running, with annual police figures showing nearly two thousand fewer victims.

The figures for April 2011 to March 2012 show a reduction of 1,889 offences in South Yorkshire compared to the previous 12-month period, down by 25%.

Vehicle crime, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour are on the decrease but South Yorkshire Police say there was a rise in burglary and metal theft .

House burglaries increased by 6%, with a rise of 405 to 7,654. Other burglaries also increased by 6%, up 492 to 9,095 offences.

The year also saw a significant rise in metal theft offences with a 24% increase across South Yorkshire by 957 crimes to 4,933.

Deputy Chief Constable Bob Dyson said: "These are challenging times for the police service but the figures show our ongoing commitment to tackle crime and keep people safe.

“This year has also seen an 8% drop in antisocial behaviour incidents across the Force, demonstrating our efforts to address the issues that matter to local communities.

"Burglary has a huge impact on people’s lives and we’re making every effort to address the 6% rise with dedicated teams continuing to work tirelessly to tackle this and other serious acquisitive crimes."