CRIME in Seaton rural was up last month – with an extra 20 incidents reported to police.

Incidents jumped from only six in July to 26 in August. Police said there had been a particular rise in domestic related incidents.

Neighbourhood beat manager Pc Steve Speariett said : “It is disappointing to see crime rise this month from an historic low of six in July, to 26 this month – which is on the upper level of monthly crime.

“However, in 15 of the crimes, suspects have been identified. We have also seen a rise in domestic related incidents.”

But he said this year was on track to be the lowest yearly total for reported crime. He said the neighbourhood team would continue to police the community in a positive manner.