Forty incidents were logged in Honiton between Monday, July 13, and Sunday, August 9, - an increase of five compared to the 35 reported during the same period in 2014.

Midweek Herald: Honiton's new neighbourhood beat manager PC James Mackay.Honiton's new neighbourhood beat manager PC James Mackay. (Image: Archant)

Reported crime in Honiton rose by more than 10 per cent, according to the latest police figures.

Honiton PCSO Dave Keeler, accompanied by new neighbourhood beat manager PC James Mackay, discussed the statistics with town councillors at their meeting on Monday.

Forty incidents were logged in Honiton between Monday, July 13, and Sunday, August 9, - an increase of five compared to the 35 reported during the same period in 2014.

This year’s tally of alleged offences included 12 violence-related incidents, which included domestic assaults, one sexual offence and three dwelling burglaries, which are also being looking into by police.

A stolen motorcycle was reported, as were two burglaries - one of an outbuilding and the other a pub staff room.

PCSO Keeler said that four cases of shoplifting were currently being investigated, as were three incidents of theft by finding and seven public order offences - most of which were drink-related.

The remaining alleged offences were five incidents of criminal damage, consisting of damage to two vehicles and three properties, one drug-related offence, which is under investigation, and a possession of an offensive weapon where a man was found with a baseball bat.

PC Mackay also introduced himself to the council.

He has been a police officer since 2007 and worked across East Devon, but has spent a considerable part of his career in Exeter working in the response section.

PC Mackay replaced PC Steve Lee, who took on the role of the neighbourhood beat manager for the Sidmouth area.

Speaking at Monday’s meeting, PC Mackay told councillors that he was enjoying his new role in Honiton.