A TOTAL of 828 adult rapes and 314 child rapes were recorded by Avon and Somerset Police in the year to the end of March 2015.

The figures, released today (Thursday) by the Rape Monitoring Group, show an increase of 48 per cent  in adult rapes from the previous year, while recorded child rapes were up from 197.

The group believe the number of people reporting rapes has gone up due to publicity around Operation Yewtree, sparked by the Jimmy Savile scandal.

Avon and Somerset Police's Ch Insp Marie Wright said: "We’re encouraged by the increase in reporting of sexual offences over the past 12 months which we believe shows victims have a greater level of confidence in us and our ability to investigate these horrific crimes and bring offenders to justice.

“This increase does present challenges in terms of demand, but robust resourcing and training plans are in place to ensure our investigators and staff feel more equipped to help and support victims.

“A decrease in the number of cases resulting in a charge or summons is disappointing, but we’re working hard with our colleagues in the Crown Prosecution Service to improve on this and to ensure our investigations are as comprehensive as they can be.

“Our victim-focussed approach means providing a positive outcome for victims is always a priority and in some cases, a prosecution and appearance in court is not in the best interests of the victim.

“We’ll continue to work hard to assist victims throughout the criminal justice process and the expertise and vital support of The Bridge Sexual Assault Referral Centre and the Independent Sexual Violence Advisor service are invaluable examples of partnership working in action.”