BASKETBALL stars and firefighters were out in force yesterday supporting the launch of a domestic violence campaign.

Members of the Worcester Wolves team joined members of the Hereford and Worcester Fire Service outside Worcester’s Guildhall for the launch of the 16 Days of Action campaign, which aims to tackle domestic abuse and violence against women.

The Worcestershire branch of the international event is being run by The Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse, which will be putting on events throughout the 16 days.

The forum’s domestic abuse co-ordinator Ros Walker said: “The 16 Days of Action was originally launched in Canada in 1991. The dates are symbolic because November 25 is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and December 10 is International Human Rights Day.

“It’s an important event as it helps to highlight what can be done to tackle violence against women at a local level, supported by events and activities throughout the world.”

The presence of the Wolves gave the day a suitably global feel, as it was attended by 6ft 2in Lithuanian Evaldas Zabas, 6ft 4in American Chey Christie, 6ft 7in Frenchman Harry Disy, and Skouson Harker, a 6ft 8in Canadian.

Michelle Morgan, community development officer for the Wolves, said: “We are delighted to be lending our support to such an important event. Helping to raise the profile of domestic abuse is an important element in tackling it and bringing it out in the open.”