Hundreds of violent and sexual crimes were reported in Bracknell in February, according to the latest police data.

The total number of crimes in the area increased by 16 per cent compared to February 2021.

Violent and sexual crimes were the most frequent, reported 249 times, followed by public order offences (73) and anti-social behaviour (64).

The news comes as Thames Valley Police outlined tackling violence against women and girls as one of their top priorities for 2022/23.

Announcing the Police and Crime Plan earlier this month, Chief Constable John Campbell said: “Over the last two years, policing has been operating against the backdrop of unprecedented circumstances throughout the pandemic and in the face of growing demands and challenges.

Read more: Electronic signs erected to help drivers avoid road closures

“To reflect this we have made some changes compared with last year, but much also remains the same.

“One priority area for the coming year will be tackling violence against women and girls; understanding and reducing the risk and harm towards them.

“We will also be focusing on improving the public’s trust and confidence in policing and how we communicate and respond to victims or people in need.”

In total, 527 crimes were reported in Bracknell Forest in February 2021, which rose to 612 in February this year.

Of the 85 additional crimes, 40 per cent were of a violent or sexual nature.

Read more: Local wildlife photography competition launches with new prizes

The force’s four operational priorities are:

  • Bringing more offenders to justice by improving the quality and timeliness of investigations
  • Protecting the vulnerable and tackling violence against women and girls by understanding how to reduce harm and risk
  • Improving victim service and public confidence by improving communication and responding to people in need
  • Reducing crime and incidents by focusing on preventing crime through targeted and effective problem-solving and disrupting organised crime

One type of crime the force have been looking to prevent this month is catalytic converter theft.

Thames Valley Police warned drivers last week to be vigilant following a spate of the thefts across the county.

Reports suggested thieves were stealing the converters from vehicles overnight while they were parked outside their owner’s homes.

In the north Crowthorne area alone, thefts were reported in Hatch Ride, Ellis Road and Wiltshire Avenue.