THE number of rapes in Dorset has risen by almost one third while prosecutions of alleged offenders have dropped, according to new figures.

Dorset’s Chief Constable Martin Baker will reveal on Wednesday how 209 rapes were committed from June 2007 until June 2008, compared with 148 during the corresponding period the previous year Prosecutions fell from 36 to 30 but convictions rose from 61.1 per cent to 66.7 per cent.

The statistics are contained in a report to the Police Authority’s audit, resources and continuous improvement committee.

Mr Baker will confirm that Dorset Police “continues to see a proportionately higher rate of rape offences per 1,000 population in comparison to the national average.”

He says: “The number of reported offences has risen year on year. This does not necessarily indicate an increase in offending but may be the result of improved recording practices, confidence in reporting and the improved delivery of services as a result of the introduction of public protection provisions.”

Roni Jones, manager of Relate Bournemouth and Family Justice Centre Project Board member, said: “Each rape is a dreadful, terrible story.

“Dorset Police are working very strenuously to improve services for victims but what’s needed is funding to provide specialist resource centres in the east and west of the county. Supporting victims is a very demanding job for qualified and properly trained people.

“The increased figures could be down to increased reporting and we are pleased that the number of convictions is rising.”

Dorset’s chief crown prosecutor Kate Brown said: “CPS Dorset takes all cases of rape extremely seriously. We work very closely with the police to prepare cases robustly and sensitively and ensure that the needs of the victim are always paramount.

“The conviction rate in Dorset is higher than the national average but there is still more than can be done. We now have specially trained lawyers to deal with rape cases and we’re constantly working to adapt and improve the way cases are prosecuted.”