Dumfries and Galloway has shown the largest rise in total recorded crime between 2011/12 and 2020/21 of any local authority in Scotland, according to new figures.

The region saw an 8 per cent increase, only one of three local authorities to record a rise in this period.

The figures were part of a report released by the Scottish Government this week.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said: “It is deeply disappointing to see any increase in crime rates, no matter how small that increase is.

“Behind these figures there are individuals and their families who have suffered at the hands of criminals.

“This needs to act as a wakeup call to the SNP Government that they have to properly fund our local police to tackle the rise in reported crime, as sadly too many crimes still go unsolved.

“The police in the region do an excellent job but it is vital that they have the resources to meet the growing challenges they face.

“However, the answer isn’t just more and better policing. Increases in crime are often down to Governments wider failure to invest in our economy, create jobs and tackle poverty.

“It is no excuse, but often crimes can be linked to deprivation – and we cannot deliver justice without also tackling social injustice and inequality.

“We need a commitment from the UK and Scottish Governments to stop the cuts, not just to policing, but to lifeline services and benefits in communities across the country.”