THE number of knife attacks in Worcestershire has risen, according to recently released figures.

Last year 134 knife attacks were reported to West Mercia Police from within the county, an increase of 27 on the year before.

The figures also show nearly half of all knife attacks reported to West Mercia police have taken place within the county.

In the last three years 890 incidents were reported to the force, which also covers Shropshire, Herefordshire and Telford and Wrekin - 415 of these took place in Worcestershire.

The 415 attacks led to 158 charges, while another 228 cases are under further police investigation.

Despite the number of knife attacks rising compared to the year 2013, 134 incidents is lower than the 174 which were reported in 2012.

Superintendent Kevin Purcell, commander for South Worcestershire, says the police is force is determined to tackle knife crime.

He said: "It is West Mercia Police’s priority to protect people from harm and bring offenders to justice, and tackling knife crime is a big part of achieving this.

"It is positive to see that knife crime has decreased overall between 2012 and 2014, both across the force area and in Worcestershire.

"More than a quarter of knife crimes in Worcestershire reported to police have resulted in a charge, while more than half are under investigation by officers. This indicates our proactive approach and determination to solve and tackle these offences."

Other outcomes of the crime include cautions, community resolutions, warnings, reprimands and summons.

Of the 415 attacks in Worcestershire, 35 were carried out by children under the age of 16.

The year 2013 was the peak year for knife attacks carried out by the age group, in which 14 were reported. Last year saw 11 such cases take place.

Superintendent Purcell added: "West Mercia Police do a lot of work around young people and deterring them to commit crime.

"This is reflected in the figures which show an extremely small proportion of children under the age of 16 being involved with knife crime."

The figures were released by West Mercia Police after a Freedom of Information request.