VICTIMS of domestic violence are being urged not to suffer in silence this festive season.

During yuletide, incidents of domestic violence can increase, fuelled by family tensions, money worries and alcohol. National statistics show that 76 per cent of domestic violence offences are linked to alcohol.

One in four women and one in six men will suffer domestic violence at some point in their life. One in five of all violent crimes is linked to domestic abuse and five out of six murders committed in West Mercia involve a history of domestic violence.

As part of Herefordshire division's Operation Christmas Presence campaign, a poster has been created to highlight the issue of domestic violence over the festive period. It is aimed at encouraging victims of domestic violence to seek help rather than suffering in silence.

Acting Detective Sergeant Sue Clarke from Herefordshire division's family protection unit, said: "Christmas should be a time of peace, goodwill and spending quality time with family, but sadly people in abusive relationships are more likely to be physically assaulted at this time of year.

"The fact that people are off work, the stress of spending more time than usual with family and drinking more than usual can mean tempers fray and people become aggressive, leading to an escalation of violence, or for some, violence occurring for the first time.

"Our advice to victims is that if they are concerned they will be more at risk over the festive period, they should not hesitate to contact us or any of the victim support agencies for help.

"They can have confidence that police will act on information in a sensitive way but also that every effort is made to bring offenders to justice."

Working closely in partnership with other support agencies, including Victim Support, Domestic Violence Forums, Women's Aid, refuges and local councils, the police are providing support to break the cycle and break the silence.

Anyone wishing to report incidents of domestic violence can call West Mercia Police on 08457 444888 and in an emergency, always ring 999. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.