HERTFORDSHIRE is “one of the safest counties in the country,” according to a top police official.

Crime in Hertfordshire was down by nine per cent for the 12 months leading up to September last year, new statistics have revealed, with Chair of Herts Police Authority Stuart Nagler praising the county’s efforts.

Herts was also below the national average, with 62 offences recorded per one thousand, compared to a national rate of 76.

Mr Stuart Nagler said: “These results confirm Hertfordshire’s place as one of the safest counties in the country and I would like to thank our officers and staff for all the excellent work that they do in keeping that way.

“I would also like to thank the public for their support and, especially, the thousands of Neighbourhood and other Watch members for their contributions.”

For the year-long period, crime in Hertfordshire fell by 9 per cent overall, with burglary down 12 per cent, vehicle crime down by nine per cent, violent crime down by four per cent and robbery down by 12 per cent.

Chief constable Frank Whiteley said: “I’m very pleased with these figures that build on several years of continuous crime reduction and have been achieved during difficult times with regards to resources and finances.”