CRIME on trains and trams in the north of England has dropped by 11 per cent, new figures have revealed.

This is the eleventh year that British Transport Police (BTP) have seen a reduction in crime.

Chief superintendent Peter Holden, divisional commander for BTP, described it as 'a remarkable achievement which reflects the excellent work, day-in day-out, of the officers and staff of BTP'.

He said: “We pride ourselves on our specialist knowledge and experience of the railway environment, as well as our close relationships with rail companies and local forces, which puts us in a unique position to meet passengers’ needs and keep people safe."

But not all categories of crime have experienced a fall in the north of England.

Chief Supt Holden added: "We have seen an increase in robbery of eight offences compared with last year, and while this represents a small increase it can have a profound impact on victims due to the associated fear of violence and we will continue to do everything in our power to make sure this is not something people have to worry about on their journeys.

"Fraud offences have also increased, including ticket and fare evasion.

“More officers are now patrolling stations and late-night trains and at peak periods, and our extensive CCTV network is helping to continue to reduce crime.

“Worryingly we have seen a rise in the increase of assault on police officers, often as a result of their intervention in low level incidents including anti-social behaviour.’’

Theft of passenger property such as bags, smartphones or other devices on trains and at stations reduced significantly, by 13 per cent in the region, with a reduction of 211 offences.