POSITIVE steps have been taken in the city to increase the reporting of crimes against gay people.

Salisbury police, together with local community action group Gay Men's Health, are launching informal drop-in sessions at the Duke of York pub, Salisbury, to encourage individuals from the gay community to report homophobic incidents.

PC Mick Leighfield, community and race relations officer in Salisbury, said: "National statistics show that less than ten per cent of homophobic incidents are reported to the police.

"We need to find methods, such as third party reporting forms, to encourage both gay men and gay women to report offences against them.

"Going out into the gay community will hopefully show that the police force is changing.

"The attitudes and stereotypes are breaking down and we are there to help every section of our diverse community.

"Lack of confidence in coming forward to report these crimes is the biggest problem," he added.

Police have relied on people completing self-reporting incident forms to help them tackle homophobic crimes but their infrequent use has only highlighted the small number of people coming forward, said PC Leighfield.

It is hoped that the drop-in sessions will encourage more people to discuss incidents on an informal but confidential level.

Wiltshire is already leading the way in tackling homophobic crime, with 90 gay liaison officers across the force area.

These officers attend four-day courses to ensure they understand the sensitivities involved in dealing with homophobic crimes.

Paul McQuaide, landlord at the Duke of York, said: "We are pleased to support this venture.

"We welcome anyone to the venue and offer a friendly relaxed and safe environment in which to report incidents."

The drop-in sessions will be held in the Duke of York pub, York Road, on the last Wednesday of each month, from 8.30pm to 10.30pm. The first session is on August 27 and further sessions will be held for a trial period of four months.