Crime is on the increase in Dumfries and Galloway as Covid-19 restrictions continue to ease.

The latest figures from the police show indecent/sexual assaults are up by 27 per cent in the region compared to the first quarter of last year.

On the roads speeding offences are up “significantly” from 621 to 925 as more people travel and housebreakings are up from 44 to 62 as the region came out of lockdown.

However, there has been a reduction in the number of people being caught with offensive and bladed weapons and fire-raising has also dropped.

The full report was presented the Scottish Police Authority’s policing performance committee on Wednesday.

Divisional Commander for Dumfries and Galloway, Chief Superintendent Carol McGuire, said: “We will use these latest statistics to inform local and targeted action plans to address the needs of our communities.

“While their policing needs continue to be impacted by pandemic-related restrictions, the effect is different compared to the same period last year when the most stringent measures were in place.

“Despite significant increases, we know sexual offending remains under-reported and I encourage victims to come forward.

“Reports of common assault are up by 75 across the area, including assaults on emergency workers which recently saw local officers punched, kicked, spat at and injured during the course of their duties.

“Officers and staff work with dedication and commitment to helping people and violence and abuse against them is not simply part of the job.

“Arrests have been made in connection with the incidents and the officers who were assaulted are being supported.”