CRIME levels in Dorset appear to have gone down during the Olympic Games compared to the same period last year, police have revealed.

Assistant Chief Constable Adrian Whiting, who is in charge of Olympic and Paralympic safety and security said: “Dorset continues to be one of the safest places in the country and the Olympic period has been no different.

“Our initial assessment is that crime levels have been lower than for the same period last year, reflecting the continued downward trend over several years.”

Mr Whiting added: “The support we’ve had from local communities has been fantastic. They’ve ensured that the 15 days of Olympic events in Dorset have been embraced, enjoyed and celebrated in safety.

“It’s been great to see the success of Team GB and other participating nations. Our safety operation will, of course, continue and we remain completely focused on ensuring a safe and secure Paralympic Games.”

Mr Whiting also saluted officers and staff from Dorset and 35 other forces. “The fact that the operation has gone so seamlessly demonstrates the professionalism of the British police service.

“While we’ve had significant mutual aid for the Olympics , neighbourhood policing teams have continued to focus on local priorities and on dealing with the things that matter to the people of Dorset.”

Mr Whiting said the summer would continue to be a busy one for the county’s public services, with Bournemouth Air Festival , the Great Dorset Steam Fair , Dorset County Show and Paralympic sailing all coming up.

Michael Taylor, chairman of Dorset Police Authority, said: “On behalf of all members and officers, I congratulate Dorset Police on a first class Olympic safety operation, aided by the contribution from other police forces, our local partners and the public. The detailed planning and implementation of the overall policing operation have been exemplary.”