The rate of repeat knife crime offenders in West Mercia fell in the past year, new figures show – despite a record level across England and Wales.

The Ben Kinsella Trust, which campaigns against knife crime, said the rate of reoffending shows investing in rehabilitation is crucial rather than "simply locking people up".

Figures from the Ministry of Justice show the Criminal Justice System dealt with 199 knife and offensive weapon offenders in West Mercia in the year to March.

Of these, 65 had a previous conviction or caution, meaning 32.7 per cent were committed by repeat offenders, down from 33.9 per cent the year before.

Superintendent Brian Gibbs, head of prevention, said: "We know the devastating impact knife crime can have on not just the victim but their families and the wider community.

"Our officers face challenges every day and people carrying knives add a real threat to them as they go about their duty to protect others.

"It is not an easy or pleasant experience to be met with somebody carrying such a dangerous weapon."

Across England and Wales, 31.5 per cent of knife and offensive weapon offenders had a previous conviction or caution – the highest rate since records began in 2014.

Subsequently, the rate of first-time offenders is at a record low, falling slightly to 68.5 per cent last year.

The figures also show the overall number of knife and offensive weapon offences dealt with by the justice system in England and Wales fell 3.3 per cent in the past year, from 19,200 in 2022-23 to 18,600 last year.

In West Mercia, it dropped from a total of 257 offences to 221.

Mr Gibbs added: "Our Steer Clear programme sees not just police but other agencies, such as paramedics and voluntary organisations to offer support to young people who are on the periphery of becoming involved in knife crime.

"We encourage anyone who has information about someone who carries a knife, or they suspect is involved in violence or drug crime, to get in touch by calling 101 or visiting our website.

"It could save a life."