CRIME in Rossendale during the past year cost an estimated £5m plus, according to the latest figures -- though recorded crime fell by eight per cent in the same period.

The cost of crime, based on thefts of vehicles, thefts from vehicles, burglary and criminal damage, has been revealed in the Crime and Disorder audit for the area.

The survey, compiled by Rossendale Borough Council, Lancashire County Council, East Lancashire Health Authority and Lancashire Constabulary, gives a breakdown of all crime in the Rossendale area as well as priorities for tackling crime. One of the main areas of concern was the number of calls to domestic violence helplines which soared by 68 per cent in 2000-2001.

The main areas of crime were vehicle crime, which accounted for 32 per cent of all incidents in Rossendale in 2000-2001, criminal damage at 23 per cent and burglary at 21 per cent.

Violent crime accounted for 11 per cent of total crime, drugs offences two per cent and other crime, such as arson and fraud, five per cent.

The document is the first step in the process of developing a three-year strategy for the Borough of Rossendale to reduce crime, disorder, and anti-social behaviour. The strategy is expected to be in place by April 2002.

The survey shows 4,889 crimes reported in Rossendale between April 2000 and March 2001. Comparisons with previous years show a reduction of 108 reported crimes from 1998/99 to 1999/2000 and a further drop of 435 from 1999/00 to 2001, a fall of eight per cent.

One of the main increases was calls to the Rossendale Domestic Violence Forum helpline, run by the police, borough council, health authority, social services, victim support and Women's Aid. In 1998/99 there were just 700 calls to the service but this leapt in 2000/01 to 1,255, an increase of 68 per cent.

The cost of crime in the borough was based on Home Office estimates of the financial implications of each type. Using those estimates the total cost in Rossendale last year was £5,296,870.

The conclusion of the survey highlights six areas proposed for action in Rossendale. They are; vehicle crime, criminal damage, burglary and theft, violent crime, drug related crime and disorder and alcohol related crime and disorder.