THE number of child sex offences recorded by Avon & Somerset Police rose to a record 1,483 last year.

The number of offences in the force area recorded in 2016/17 increased by 43 per cent from the previous year – with an offence being recorded on average every six hours.

UK-wide, child sex offences jumped by 15 per cent to 64,667 last year.

The new figures obtained by an NSPCC Freedom of Information request found Avon & Somerset officers recorded 336 offences – including rape, sexual assault and grooming – where the victim was aged 10 or under, including 10 sex offences against babies before their first birthday.

Meanwhile, in 2016/17, Avon & Somerset Police flagged one in 20 of these offences as having an online element.

However, the total number of sex offences committed against children is unknown, as more children may not have come forward out of fear or embarrassment, or may not even realise they have been abused.

Sharon Copsey, NSPCC Head of Service for South West England, said: “This dramatic rise is extremely concerning and shows just how extensive child sexual abuse is.”

The NSPCC is calling for government to direct more resources to ensure high-quality training and support is available to frontline police officers to help raise awareness of safeguarding procedures and tackle child sex offences, especially online.

Mrs Copsey added: “These abhorrent crimes can shatter a child’s life, leaving them to feel humiliated, depressed, or even suicidal.

“That is why it is crucial every single child who has endured abuse and needs support must get timely, thorough help so they can learn to rebuild their lives.

“These new figures suggest the police are making real progress in how they investigate sex offences against children.

“To help them tackle the issue going forward, we must ensure the police are equipped to work with other agencies and provide ongoing support and training to officers on the frontline.”

But, a spokesman added that it is also vital that children feel able to come forward to disclose abuse.

The NSPCC’s Speak Out. Stay Safe programme visits primary schools across the UK to help children learn the signs of abuse in an age appropriate way, and what to do if they have been victims of such abuse.

Chidline is free to contact, as is the NSPCC's helpline for adults seeking advice.