The number of crimes reported to police dropped by 42 in the space of a month, new figures have revealed.

There were just 61 crimes reported in September this year, the most recent figures available. This is down from 103 in the previous month.

Of the crimes that were reported there were 19 classed as violent or sexual offences.

The category of violent crimes, as defined by the police, include a range of offences from minor offences such as harassment and common assault, to serious offences such as murder, actual bodily harm and grievous bodily harm. Sexual offences include Indecent Assault and Unlawful (under age) Sexual Intercourse, as well as sexual assault, rape and Indecent exposure.

There were also 10 public order offences - acts of violence or intimidation in public - and eight of anti-social behaviour and theft.

The neighbourhood team will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in the city, as well as visiting shops to give crime prevention advice. Beat surgeries will take place in the High Street and officers will also be handing out purse cables and purse security bells on Market Day.

They are also urging shoppers to be mindful while out and about, asking them to make sure they keep their purses and wallets secure and avoid leaving them in sight of others.

A police spokesman said: "We know what an impact shoplifting can have on our local communities and businesses and we remain committed to tackling and reducing shop and purse theft as one of our local policing priorities.

"As part on our ongoing work we are continuing to work closely with retail partners to support them, providing crime prevention advice, as well as locating and arresting suspects. Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and can have a significant impact on retailers both financially and emotionally.

"We continue to treat shop theft seriously and we will deal robustly with shop theft perpetrators."

Residents are encouraged to report any problems via 101 or online on the Avon and Somerset Police website.