CRIME figures for Eastern Division have risen by more than 13 per cent on last year, with violent crime leaping by 31 per cent.

However, senior officers in the division, which covers Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley, have blamed the rise on the way crime is recorded.

The new method of positive recording of crime means that the figures show a more realistic picture of crime in East Lancashire, rather than more crime actually being committed.

The 13.5 per cent rise in all recorded crime for 2000-2001 contrasts to the constabulary target of a reduction of 3.5 per cent.

In Lancashire as a whole, figures showed a rise in all recorded crime of 8 per cent on last year, with violent crime up 19.4 per cent.

Up by 31 per cen t, violent crime was the main culprit for the overall rise, with common assault up by 68 per cent and robberies by 21 per cent.

Burglaries also rose last year by 8 per cent, an increase which equates to just one more burglary every two days than last year.

However, both vehicle crime, down by 15 per cent according to latest figures and disorder, down 5 per cent, were notable areas of success for the division.

Chief Supt Dave Mallaby said: "We are clearly disappointed that the recorded crime levels have risen. Nevertheless, we are particularly pleased that we are getting a much better picture."

Lancashire Constabulary changed the way crimes were recorded last summer. The new approach means police have started actively encouraging people to report crimes -- especially sensitive crimes such as domestic violence and race crimes.

Bosses are hoping the new positive approach will tell them where resources will be best focussed.