Residents are being urged to call 999 if they feel in immediate danger from a stalker.

Figures show that during the 12 months from July, 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, reports of stalking and harassment fell by 8.1 per cent compared to a previous decrease of 2.9 per cent, which Dorset Police said marked an 'improvement over these recent months'.

Stalking is considered a serious crime and is often defined by a pattern of fixated, obsessed, unwanted and repeated behaviour.

The force is urging anyone who may feel in danger to report it immediately to 99.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "Being stalked is not your fault and you cannot control your stalker’s behaviour.

"Taken in isolation behaviours might seem unremarkable, but in the particular circumstances and with repetition, they take on a more sinister meaning.

"Stalking is a serious crime and can destroy the lives of those victimised, it therefore needs to be treated with the seriousness that it deserves in order to better protect victims and address the stalkers.

"If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 999."