Cumbria's crime commissioner has highlighted a series of improvements in services for victims across the county during the last year.

Richard Rhodes said there had been moves to supply more advice and a new centre for people subjected to sex crimes would open this year.

Mr Rhodes launched his annual report, setting out how he has carried out his role in the last 12 months.

The commissioner said it outlined progress made against issues he saw as priorities, mentioning work done following a review he commissioned on services for victims.

He said: “This year has seen the introduction of a raft of services and projects I have funded in support of victims of domestic abuse, a key priority of mine.” 

He gave the example of the launch of a website aimed at providing advice and guidance on services victims could use.

Mr Rhodes said crime victims in the ounty would also soon benefit with the opening of a sexual assault referral centre at Penrith.

He added: “I have and will continue to examine how the police are performing. “While there are some areas that I have asked the chief constable to focus on, I am pleased that Cumbria remains a safe place.”

To see the annual report in full, visit www.cumbria-pcc.gov.uk or call 01768 217734 for a paper copy.