The public has helped beat crime

The government has highlighted crime hot spots and Caerphilly is the worst for violent crimes against individuals.

This category ranges from common assault to murder. Newport is close behind.

But on the whole Welsh police forces have come out well.

Chief Constable of South Wales police, Tony Burden, said the figures were the results of hard work.

"We have kept the message simple and that is bringing results," said Mr Burden.

"We're also starting to see the rewards now of good partnership working."

We have kept the message simple and that is bringing results

Chief Constable Tony Burden

South Wales and Dyfed-Powys have both seen general levels of crime fall in their areas and although there was an increase in Gwent and North Wales, that rise was less than the average for England and Wales.

The Dyfed-Powys force has the lowest number of burglaries - both of homes and at other premises - in England and Wales.

The increase in crimes of violence is seen as a cause for concern, but the force says this can be attributed to "our positive investigation of disorder offences and domestic violence".

Senior police officers said the figures reflect the help they have had from the public.

Police in Wales are also hoping to get an extra �5m to combat crime from the Chancellor in his Comprehensive Spending Review, which sets Government spending targets for the next three years.

They have already said most of that will be channelled to improve policing in rural areas.