Reports of child sex abuse have more than TRIPLED in Kent in the past four years.

Official crime figures released today by the Office for National Statistics show a sharp increase in cases of sexual activity involving youngsters under 13.

The number jumped from 76 in the 2012 to 2013 financial year, to 282 from 2015 to 2016.

Children's charity the NSPCC described the figures as "grim".

A spokesman said: "Recent investigations have exposed a dark underbelly of abuse that went on for far too long with the impact only now becoming tragically clear.

"Sexual abuse has a devastating impact on a child, and we urge all victims to come forward as soon as possible so they can get the support they need and offenders can be brought to justice."

Kent Police said the rise shows people are now more confident about reporting sexual abuse - with an increase in the number of historic offences investigated.

"Sexual abuse has a devastating impact on a child, and we urge all victims to come forward as soon as possible" - NSPCC

DCI Susie Harper said: "There is a significant growth in the confidence people have in the police to fully investigate sexual offences.

"We have experienced a rise in the number of non-recent child sexual offences reported to us and we have been successful in securing many convictions for such crimes.

"Just recently, a member of the combined safeguarding team secured a prison sentence of 15 years for a man who systematically raped a young girl in the 1980s.

"Not only are we able to help see justice done but also work with our partners to offer much needed support to the victims that will help them cope with the mental scars left by such abhorrent abuse.

"In another recent case in Kent, a four-year-old became the youngest victim in the country to give evidence in court after being accused of lying by the abuser, who had committed the rape and indecent assault.

"We helped this child's voice to be heard, we ensured he was given the appropriate care and saw justice done when the perpetrator was sentenced to nine years in prison, placed on the sex offenders register and a sex offences prevention order for life."

DCI Harper said police were working hard to protect children and raise awareness of child sexual abuse.

She continued: "We are engaging more than ever before with schools to tackle the issue and bring offenders to justice.

"Behind every statistic lies a very real incident of abuse and there is a passion and desire to raise awareness within the wider community, as we know that awareness brings action, and that action saves lives being damaged for the future.

"It is a key priority for us to work with the community and with all our partners to keep our children and vulnerable adults safe."

Victims of child sexual abuse can call police on 101 or Childline on 0800 1111.