New figures show a sharp rise in violent crime in Derbyshire and police warn it could get worse.

Derbyshire Chief Constable David Coleman called the crime rise "disappointing" and said more officers were being drafted in.

But he warned figures could get worse next year because police are being asked to record more complaints.

The annual report for 2001 to 2002 shows a rise in total crime of 10%.

'Getting worse'

It also shows robberies up by a third and sexual offences showing a 24% increase.

In just one area - serious or fatal accidents - have Derbyshire police performed better than their own targets.

Mr Coleman said next year's figures could appear worse because from April officers have had to record every call or complaint.

However, he also said new efforts are already underway to boost local crime fighting.

They include 50 extra community beat officers - who will work alongside 100 deployed last year.