CRIME on Merseyside today stands at its lowest level since 1985, according to official figures.
More than 9,000 fewer Merseysiders became victims of crime for the financial year 2008-09 than the previous 12 months, a 7% drop.
Despite rises in drug-related crimes and robberies, overall crime at its lowest level for nearly a quarter of a century.
Gun crime, burglaries, violence and anti-social behaviour are all on the wane, according to the figures.
Last time crime was this low, an unknown pop star from Michigan, USA, by the name of Madonna was embarking on her first tour and Wembley was rocking to the sounds of Live Aid performers.
In the news that year was Mikhail Gorbachev becoming Soviet leader and Boris Becker winning Wimbledon at the tender age of 17.
Assistant Chief Constable Helen King, of Merseyside Police, said: "These latest figures provide great news for people who live and work in Merseyside and show that the area is getting safer.
"Amongst other things these figures show that our constant emphasis on using technology and new tactics to stay ahead of the criminal are reaping dividends, which is good news for victims.
"By waging a war on all crime using the Total Policing approach 9,116 fewer people become a victim of crime over this period."
