CRIME per head of population in Burnley has risen, according to official new figures.

Burnley’s crime rate is now higher than in any other town in Lancashire, with the exception of Blackpool. But police and community leaders stress that not all types of crime have increased.

Burglaries in Burnley have risen to a rate of 4.29 per 1,000 population, the highest since 2012, and rates of violent and sexual offences are the second highest in Lancashire, at 4.98 per 1,000.

But other crimes are on a downturn. Weapons offences have reached an all-time low of 0.8 per 1,000, and theft from the person has seen a marked decrease, to 0.14 per 1,000.

Chief Insp Victoria Crorken said: “There has been an increase in certain categories of crime in some local areas over the past 12 months. A number of these crimes are preventable by householders ensuring their properties are secure and vehicle owners ensuring they do not leave valuables on display.”

Supt Damian Darcy said: “We recognise that we face challenges as we move forward due to reduced budgets and resources. We ask that the public do their bit to help us meet those challenges by following basic crime-prevention tips such as locking doors and windows and not leaving valuables on display.”

Burnley MP Gordon Birtwistle said: “Last week I spoke to the chief superintendent who said that they were doing very well under the circumstances, so I am surprised (by the figures).

“It is a concern that crime is on the increase. We need to find out what the reasons are for the increase.

Burnley Council leader Mark Townsend said: “I am concerned about the figures and will be looking at them in detail with senior police officers. We will redouble our efforts with the police and other partners to address crime in the borough.

“Criminals need to know that they are likely to get caught and punished if they commit offences. And residents need to know that the necessary number of police officers is in place to address and prevent crime across the borough.”

Lancashire police and crime commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Any rise in crime is disappointing but I want to reassure residents that Burnley remains a safe place to live and work. The figures show a small rise, with crime lower than between December 2011 and March 2012.”