Night-time crime at pubs and clubs in Epping Forest has dropped by more than 20 per cent in the last year, according to police.

In the 12 months up to March 31, reported "night-time economy" offences were said to have dropped by 24 per cent in Loughton and 18 per cent in Epping.

The 200 reports include offences relating to drugs, assault, theft and criminal damage at specific locations between 6pm and 6am.

The release of the statistics on Friday (June 19) follows serious high-profile incidents at LuXe nightclub in Loughton and Villa in Epping.

A man was put into a coma and two others were stabbed after a brawl outside the club on March 1, which was subsequently sold.

Police action at clubs such as Villa is responsible for the drop in crime, claimed district commander Chief Inspector Denise Morrissey.

She said: “Officers regularly patrol areas we have identified that are affected by night time economy crime to prevent incidents and reassure people.

“Working together with the district council, the license of Villa nightclub was suspended within days of a serious public order incident on Sunday March 1.

“The premises was subsequently sold and, following consultations with the new owner, amendments to the license were proposed to address our concerns.

“These were supported by the licensing committee and will allow the police, district council and the venue to have a better working relationship to promote the licensing objectives.

“We know we have more work to do, but our partnership with the council can make the streets of Epping safer for people who just want to enjoy a good night out."

Following a brawl in LuXe which left two men with serious head injuries, district councillor James Hart called for police to do more about widespread reports of drugs and violence, and he raised concerns that many crimes go unreported.

Licensing chairman of Epping Forest District Council councillor Ken Angold-Stephens welcomed Friday’s statistics but echoed these concerns.

He said: “The support of residents in reporting incidents will be a big help to us in evaluating the evidence that could lead to a review."

The statistics follows the revelation more than 80 per cent of crimes in Epping Forest go unsolved, an issue that chief insp. Morrissey blamed on London criminals.