A MASSIVE rise in the sexual abuse of County Durham men is down to an increase in the reporting of historical offences, say police.

Shocking statistics taken from a Freedom of Information request show that the number of sexual offences against men in the county surged from 44 in 2012 to 300 by 2014.

Consett had the most striking rise in sexual offences involving male victims – going from one reported in 2012 to 201 by 2014.

The figures show that 123 sexual assaults on over-13s were investigated in Consett in 2014 while 69 men reported being raped.

Police have attributed the dramatic rise to an increase in the reporting of historic offences, in particular those associated with Operation Seabrook.

The operation was launched in 2013 to investigate abuse which happened over decades at the Medomsley Detention Centre, near Consett.

Since its launch, more than 950 former inmates have said they were abused while detained at the centre during the 1970s and 1980s.

Other high profile cases, including those involving celebrities such as Jimmy Savile and Rolf Harris, may have sparked a rise in the reporting of historic abuse across the country.

Durham Constabulary believe higher figures are evidence of victims putting their trust in the police.

A spokeswoman said: “It’s very sad to think there have been so many victims of sexual abuse who felt unable to report it at the time it took place.

“The figures indicate that subsequently victims have become confident enough to place their trust in us and tell us what happened.

“This not only enables us to investigate their cases but also bring on board the specialist agencies that can help with counselling and support.”

County Durham and Darlington’s Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg pledged his support to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence.

Urging victims to come forward, he said: "I understand it can be very difficult for victims of sexual abuse to come forward and tell anyone about their suffering, regardless of their age, gender or sexuality.

"Sexual violence is an abhorrent and unacceptable crime and a range of partner agencies and charities will continue to support victims who live in Durham and Darlington.”

The figures also showed that sexual abuse towards men between 2012 and 2014 increased from one incident to four in Bishop Auckland, eight incidents to 21 in Darlington and two incidents to 12 in Newton Aycliffe.

To report an offence, call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.