THE number of child sex offences reported in Devon and Cornwall rose to 1358 in 2014-15, according to figures obtained by the NSPCC.

It compared to 1125 the previous year for the force area.

The latest figures reveal there were 1107 female victims, compared to 274 male.

In England and Wales, the figure soared by a third to 41,457 over the same period with recorded crimes including rape, grooming and sexual assault.

This is almost a 33 per cent increase from last year in England and Wales.

A total of 10,757 – 29 a day – were aged 10.

Under, 2,409 of whom were too young to go to school.

In 2013-14, 31,238 offences – 85 a day – were reported to police.

The NSPCC, who obtained the figures from a Freedom of Information request, said that the figures reveal only a small part of the whole picture, as they say many children are afraid to speak up.

A recent report by the charity also revealed that some young victims say they are not believed when they report sex crimes to police.

Peter Wanless, NSPCC chief executive, said: “This dramatic rise is deeply worrying and shows just how extensive this appalling crime has become, claiming many victims every day, every hour.

“Sexual abuse can shatter a child’s mental health. It can leave them anxious, depressed and 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 how to handle disturbing emotions and behaviours and rebuild their lives.

“Our It’s Time Campaign demands that government make the mental health of abused children a priority so that some of the most vulnerable members of our society can start to recover.”

The NSPCC said it is unclear why there has been such a staggering increase in recorded offences.

But that there may be improvements in police forces recording methods, or becoming more vigilant about sex crimes.

The charity said it could also be down to survivors feeling more encouraged to speak out and finally, that online grooming is becoming a major problem.

Detective chief inspector Neil Ralph, from the Public Protection Unit, said: “We welcome the figures released today by the NSPCC as this proves that victims have confidence in approaching Devon and Cornwall Police, safe in the knowledge that they will be believed and supported.

“We have worked hard and continue to build up public confidence and to ensure that when a victim of a sexual crimes finds the courage to report this to the police, we will do everything to help and support them.”

The NSPCC’s Time campaign is calling on the government to increase funding for support services for children who have suffered abuse.