Fewer crimes are committed against older people in Scotland compared to other parts of the UK, a new survey has revealed.

However, the study found that fear of crime remains as high north of the border.

More than a quarter of Scots aged over 60 are said to be afraid to walk alone after dark, but only 2.7% have experienced an attack or robbery.

The findings, highlighted by the Scottish Gas Help the Aged Partnership, compared recent National Crime Survey statistics from various parts of the UK.

We are aware of older people's fear of crime and the resulting tendency to stay at home more

Liz Duncan Help the Aged

Figures showed assaults against people aged 60 and over in England and Wales are 180% higher than north of the border.

General housebreaking offences are 23% higher and vehicle crimes are 75% higher.

Liz Duncan, from Help the Aged, said: "We are aware of older people's fear of crime and the resulting tendency to stay at home more, isolate themselves from social activities and sometimes, as a result, become very depressed.

"We want to point out that this need not be the case."

The partnership is planning a range of initiatives to help older people lead safe and independent lives.

Tom Laidlaw, director of Scottish Gas, said: "Although these figures are encouraging, we will still be moving forward with practical on-the-ground projects that will help the police combat crimes and tackle the fear of crime among older people in the most effective way possible."