HERTFORDSHIRE is the seventh safest place to live in the country – that’s according to crime statistics, which have also shown that recorded crime dropped in the county in the 12 months running up to September 2011.

For the twelve month period, there were 59 recorded offences per one thousand population compared to a national rate of 74, bringing the county up to seventh place out of the 43 constabularies in the country.

Overall recorded crime in Hertfordshire fell by five per cent.

Dwelling burglary was down 11 per cent, vehicle crime down 16 per cent, violent crime down five per cent and robbery down by three per cent.

There were over 3,300 fewer recorded crimes in the county compared to the same period in the previous year. Crime nationally fell by four per cent.

Rates of crime in the county compared to the national picture also remained low across main crime types with Hertfordshire’s serious violent crime rate also remaining well below the national rate – four offences per one thousand population compared to six nationally.

David Lloyd, chairman of Herts Police Authority, said: “I am delighted that Hertfordshire Constabulary has continued to deliver reductions in crime. These impressive figures reflect the hard work and commitment of the constabulary, working together with our partners and local communities to keep Hertfordshire safe.”

Chief constable Andy Bliss added: “These are good figures that build on several years of sustained crime reduction in the county. I would like to thank the officers, staff and volunteers of the constabulary for their hard work and professionalism which helps make Hertfordshire one of the safest counties in the country.”