A fleet of police cars is being dedicated to tackling domestic violence this Christmas.
Police anti-victimisation units across the county are sending cars out on patrol responding solely to reports of domestic abuse.
The scheme is part of Operation Cranberry, the force’s annual campaign to tackle a rise in abuse over the Christmas period.
Last year reports of domestic violence rose by 31% over Christmas.
Police welcomed the rise in calls because one of the difficulties officers face when investigating the crime is that victims are reluctant to come forward and make complaints.
Charities estimate only one in three domestic violence offences is reported.
People suffering from domestic violence are urged in the case of emergency to dial 999 or, if an immediate response is not necessary, to call 0845 6070999.
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