THE number of recorded knife crimes in the region has increased by 69 per cent in five years.

Figures released by the Home Office show that 476 crimes in which knives were used were recorded in West Mercia between October 2016 and September 2017 - up on the same period in 2012/13.

This represents a significant increase in knife crime in West Mercia over the last five years, reflecting the national rise in stabbings.

The most common offence recorded for those crimes was assault with injury or intent to cause serious harm. There were 292 such incidents in the 12 months to September 2017 - 61 per cent of all knife crimes.

In addition, there were two murders, five attempted murders, 54 death threats, as well as 17 rapes, eight sexual assaults and 98 robberies using knives.

Chief Inspector Jim Baker said: “In line with national data, there has been an increase in reported knife crime in the county and we understand the concern this may cause.

“The way we record data has changed and this is likely to account for some of the increase.

“Many of the incidents are personal disputes where offenders and victims were known to each other, often in a domestic setting or part of a drug related dispute.

“Incidents where people fall victim to a knife crime at the hands of a stranger in the street are very rare.

“However, any type of knife crime has a huge impact upon victims and we are committed to tackling those responsible and raising awareness of the dangers of carrying and using a knife for crime.”

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “It is widely acknowledged that better recording practices have been a key driver behind all increases in recorded crime right across the country in recent years.

“West Mercia’s rate of knife crime is still comparatively low compared to many other areas.

“The official, more reliable measure of crime continues to show that although recorded incidents have increased, actual crime has continued to fall.

“The rate and nationwide increase we have seen around recorded incidents of knife crime shows this is not just a local issue. It is a cultural issue we need to tackle as a society.”