FIGURES released by the Office for National Statistics have shown that the number of sexual offences recorded by police in Cheshire has risen by 21 per cent in the last year, seven per cent more than the national average increase of 14 per cent.

The data, from the Crime Survey for England and Wales, analysed the number of sexual assaults experienced by adults aged 16 to 59, including by type, gender and personal characteristics, and sexual offences reported to police.

David Keane, police and crime commissioner for Cheshire, said: “The rise in the number of sexual assaults in Cheshire recently is extremely concerning and is something I want to explore fully as part of my role to scrutinise the force.

“There is no doubt that this is a very complex issue; however, I am determined to get to the crux of the matter and will work with the constabulary to put in place measures to protect the residents of Cheshire.”

The report shows that nearly all police forces across the country have experienced an increase in reports of sexual offences and domestic abuse.

Mr Keane said: “At this stage, we cannot say with certainty what has led to this rise, but it’s important that we fully understand the reasons so that we can work together with the constabulary to address it.

“I formally asked a number of questions of the force during last week’s scrutiny board meeting and the public of Cheshire can rest assured that I will continue to challenge and probe into the causes of this rise, however complex they may be, to enable effective actions to be taken to address these heinous crimes.”

The results of the scrutiny board meeting and their outline for tackling the issue is due to be published later this month.