THERE are 197 registered sex offenders in Wiltshire, with another 45 from the county in prison, according to figures released this week.

It is the first time the number of the county's sex offenders has been revealed and the release of the figures is part of a new policy of openness by the Government.

Wiltshire Police refuses to give a breakdown of figures per town, but says arrangements have been made to ensure those deemed to be a risk are put under surveillance.

All registered sex offenders are assessed and categorised depending on the level of risk they pose. A panel meets to review the case and hold emergency risk assessments when needed.

There are also protocols and procedures in place for agencies to share information when dealing with high risk offenders.

Sex offenders in jail include paedophile Anthony Adams, 48, named in a vigilante leaflet distributed throughout Rodbourne, Swindon, after he returned to live there. He was returned to jail after breaking the terms of a licence imposed on his release.

Head of Wiltshire CID, Detective Chief Superintendent Gary Chatfield, said: "The publishing of these figures reinforces our commitment to continue to work together in our primary objective of keeping Wiltshire safe."

"We have worked with our partners for a number of years to ensure the sound working practices that minimise the risk posed by sex and dangerous offenders.

The figures are published in the annual report of the county's Multi Agency Public Protection Panels.

They reveal there are 56 offenders living in Wiltshire who are considered dangerous and violent, and a further 68 from Wiltshire who are in custody.