Councillors were told police numbers across Bedale have nearly halved because of low crime levels - despite a spate of criminal damage and violent threats.

The number of police constables covering Bedale District have reduced from nine to five while the three PCSO’s have been retained along with a dedicated Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant.

Insp Geoff Crocker, newly posted to the Dales District for Bedale and Leybur, said the reduction reflected the area's low crime volume.

Latest  reports showed offences had risen slightly by three per cent, with burglaries and theft down in the past month.

However, damage offences had gone from two to five and violence from three to seven, with 80 per cent of those detected.

There had also been two accidents, seven driving offences and four highway disruption.

A list of incidents over the past month included four shop windows smashed at Shabby Chic, Bengal restaurant, Halls Fish and Chips and the High School.

There was also a road rage assault in the Market Place, another suspect was tasered after four people were harassed and threatened, Leech house was damaged twice and a mobile phone was stolen at the car boot sale.

Mayor Amanda Coates said: ”I am shocked by what is there.

"We have had a number of incidents and a serious assault. With these incidents in mind, my concern is when there is one officer on duty and they are called away that leaves Bedale uncovered."

Insp Crocker said:” We will send police officers where there are incidents. If we get a regular problem that is when we will look at the situation."