Hard Brussels sprouts, too much drinking and money troubles have sparked a sharp rise in domestic violence.

Experts say trivial incidents like snoring or poorly-cooked food at stressful times like Christmas often trigger physical or mental abuse.

Reports of violence in the home have soared 80 per cent since last January's launch of the Brighton and Hove anti-victimisation unit based at Brighton police station and the team is expecting a string of new cases following the New Year celebrations.

Victims are sometimes loath to attend police stations to make reports and so unit case workers are going out into the community.

The first of what will be weekly clinics will be held on Thursday at the Citizens' Advice Bureau in Surrey Street, near Brighton station, between 5pm and 7pm.

Chrystel Osmann, domestic abuse case worker with the unit, said much of the rise in cases was due to more victims being prepared to report matters to experts and the police.

She said talking to the unit could often nip problems in the bud before they became serious or it could help victims get out of or resolve abusive relationships.

She said: "Victims are not always wanting to speak directly to police officers and this is where we can help.

"We can offer advice including how to pursue matters in civil or criminal courts."

Almost 1,600 people reported incidents of abuse from January to November last year and 20 per cent of these were men.

Staff at the unit believe this is still only scratching the surface of a more widespread problem than the figures suggest.

Ms Osmann said men and women were putting up with physical and mental abuse, including nagging, assaults and torment.

She said: "Some men are constantly being put down by their partners for their sexual ability and some women are agreeing to sex to avoid assaults.

"If situations like this are causing concern then we would urge these victims to come along to the clinics and to speak to us.

"They don't have to put up with it."

Anyone wanting further information should contact the unit on 01273 665502 or 01273 665800.