ARRESTS of children by Wiltshire Police have fallen by 58 per cent in the last six years, according to the latest figures published by the Howard League for Penal Reform.

Research by the charity has found that the force made 953 arrests of children aged 17 and under last year, down from 2,262 in 2010.

The statistics underline the success of a major Howard League programme, which involves working with police forces to keep as many boys and girls as possible out of the criminal justice system.

Frances Crook, chief executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said: “Wiltshire Police should be applauded for their positive approach, and the Howard League is proud to have played its part in a transformation that will make our communities safer.

“For the sixth year running, we have seen a significant reduction in child arrests across the country.

“This is a tremendous achievement, and we will continue to support police forces to develop their good practice and reduce the number to an absolute minimum.

“By working together, we are ensuring that tens of thousands of children will have a brighter future and not be dragged into a downward spiral of crime and custody.”

Across England and Wales, the total number of arrests has fallen by 64 per cent in six years – from almost 250,000 in 2010 to 87,525 in 2016.

The Howard League for Penal Reform is the oldest penal reform charity in the world, for more information on their work go to howardleague.org