TEN child sex offences are reported each week in Wiltshire on average, according to recent figures.

New data from the NSPCC reveals that there were 570 offences recorded by Wiltshire Police in 2016/17 - a rise of three per cent from 560 in the previous year.

Among the alleged crimes 116 offences - including rape, sexual assault and grooming - involved a victim aged 10 and under.

The force also flagged that almost one in 10 of these offences had an online element.

The rise is being put down in part to police improving recording methods and victims feeling more confident in disclosing abuse following high-profile cases.

The figures, according to the NSPCC, highlight that online groomers are becoming a “significant problem” with predators able to reach hundreds of children

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.

“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.”

Across the UK, figures were up by 15 per cent to 64,667 last year, with an offence recorded on average every eight months.

The NSPCC said that the true extent 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.

The charity is now calling for the government to direct more funding to enable police officers to help raise awareness and tackle child sex offences.