THERE were more than 1,600 cases of fly-tipping reported in York over the past year, a report into crime in the city has revealed.

The Safer York Partnership report reveals that total crime in York has dropped by 12 per cent, or 1,648 crimes, over the year – the largest fall in the eight local authorities in North Yorkshire.

But the figures show a rise in domestic violence of 12 per cent - with 2,476 incidents reported over the year.

In addition, levels of fly-tipping increased by 150 cases in 2012/13 compared to the previous year, with rural roads to the west of the city and Skelton, Rawcliffe and Clifton Without seeing slightly higher than expected levels.

Russell Stone, who is responsible for street cleansing at City of York Council, said: “The council has household waste and recycling centres at city centre Hazel Court and at rural Towthorpe in addition to the many recycling centres across the city, so there’s absolutely no excuse to fly-tip.

“When it’s reported or discovered by our team, we go through what’s been dumped for evidence of the perpetrator, and we ask members of the public who’ve reported it to be witnesses. It can be reported by calling 01904 551551 or via the Smarter York app.”

City of York Council also received 137 reports of drug-related litter last year compared to 138 the year before, the bi-annual performance report notes.

However, there was a 17 per cent drop in recorded antisocial behaviour calls, equating to 2,169 fewer calls, and 572 domestic burglaries – a drop of 109 on the year before.

Levels of graffiti dropped by 34 per cent, or 200 cases, and there were 1,625 incidents involving noise complaints last year compared to 1,833 cases in the previous year.

The number of shoplifting incidents increased slightly to 1,502 from 1,483 incidents in preceding years There were 189 fewer incidents of violent crime, an eight per cent reduction.

Meanwhile, the report emphasises the influence of alcohol on those admitted to accident and emergency for assault. Alcohol, whether it affected the offender or the victim, is thought to have been a factor in up to 75 per cent of incidents.