THE number of reported serious assaults, robberies and housebreakings has fallen in the Borders over the past year.

The statistics come from the latest police performance report.

Figures show that the number of serious assaults fell by four per cent.

Meanwhile, assault with intent to rob fell by 15 per cent between April 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020.

And there were 50 fewer reported housebreakings during the same period.

Chief Superintendent John McKenzie, divisional commander for the Lothians and Scottish Borders, said: “It is encouraging to see crimes such as serious assault and robbery fall, as these are issues that we prioritise within the division.

“Tackling perpetrators of violence and supporting victims will always be a focus within the division, whether within public or private space locations.

“Police Scotland will continue to pursue domestic abuse offenders and support victims.

"These crimes often happen in private or virtual spaces but, to anyone living in an abusive environment, we are here to help.

“Please do not hesitate to contact police, or report through a third-party mechanism and, be rest assured, your report will be handled with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism.

“I am also pleased that housebreakings have decreased. This crime has a devastating impact on families and it remains the commitment of the team within the Lothians and Scottish Borders that we will prioritise domestic housebreakings, with the aim of identifying and arresting offenders, whilst also focusing on preventative methods."

Fatal road collisions also fell by 50 per cent – coming down from 24 to 12.

However, the report states there has been a slight rise in crimes of violence.

Ch Supt McKenzie added: “While there are positives from our fourth quarter figures, we remain focussed on delivering further improvements during 2020/21 and we aim to achieve this by strengthening our working relationship with key partners and enhancing our engagement with communities throughout the region.”