The number of abortions carried out in Bradford has increased at more than twice the rate of the rest of the country.

Figures released by the Department of Health show 1,737 abortions were carried out in Bradford last year, compared with 1,649 in 2006. That increase of more than five per cent compares with a rise of just 2.5 per cent, from 193,700 to 198,500, across all of England and Wales.

Bradford’s figures broken down by age of the woman show almost a third (518) of abortions were carried out on 20 to 24-year-olds. Only 204 were under 18 and another 212 teenagers either 18 or 19 had a termination.

The statistics also revealed 337 women aged between 25 and 29 had an abortion, 236 people aged 30 to 34 and another 230 who were over the age of 35.

Health minister Dawn Primarolo said: “Our priority is to reduce the time women have to wait for an abortion at what is already a very difficult time for them. These statistics show that we have made considerable progress in this, with over two-thirds of women having their abortion at under ten weeks in 2007, up from half in 2002.

“Contraception plays a vital role in preventing teenage pregnancy and earlier this year I announced a further investment of 26.8m to improve women’s access to contraception and help reduce the number of abortions, repeat abortions and teenage pregnancies.”

A spokesman for Bradford and Airedale Teaching PCT said: “We are working closely with GPs to improve access to abortion services for women of all ages across the district, so unnecessary waits are avoided and appropriate professional support, including options counselling, can be provided as soon as possible.

“Access to contraception is very important in preventing teenage pregnancies and helping to reduce the number of abortions. Women who are undergoing abortions are now offered better contraception, including long-acting reversible methods, to help prevent the need for repeat abortions.

“In partnership with Upfront, the Council’s teenage pregnancy service, we have a range of innovative projects to help young people access contraception and other sexual health services where they feel most comfortable. If a young person has made a mistake and doesn’t want to risk either an abortion or unplanned pregnancy, we need to do everything we can to help them.

“Anyone wanting help and advice about contraception or sexual health services can call 0845 002 0021 – to speak to a health professional or book an appointment.”