TWO people who failed to turn up in court and whose last whereabouts were believed to be in Kidderminster were included in a list of bail dodgers issued by police.

West Mercia Constabulary named Shane John Eccles and Helen Marie Hart among 20 individuals wanted on warrant.

Eccles, 24, was facing two offences of theft, while Hart, 21, was due to appear in connection with burglary, obtaining property by deception and two offences of failing to answer bail.

Valentine's cards dropped through the letterboxes of the bail dodgers across the force area on Monday as part of a month-long initiative - Operation Turn Up - intended to bring them to justice.

Just over 1,000 people were wanted after failing to show up at courts across Worcestershire, Shropshire and Herefordshire.

"We know that, nationally, for every 100 people bailed to attend a court in connection with an offence, 15 will not turn up," said Chief Insp Richard James, of West Mercia's criminal justice support department.

"Their attempts to evade justice cause unnecessary stress and inconvenience for victims and witnesses and delays in the court process.

"Bail dodging is a criminal offence and those found guilty can expect additional penalty from the court, including imprisonment.

"The Valentine's card and publicity about our efforts is the next phase in our efforts to bring bail dodgers back before the courts."

He added that bail dodgers could be embarrassed or inconvenienced as they could be arrested any time of the day or night at work, home or out socialising with colleagues or friends.

Chief Insp James went on: "We are urging those who have dodged bail to give themselves up by attending their local police station. Those that do may be dealt with more leniently by the courts."

Tony Breeze, area manager of Victim Support Worcestershire said the organisation fully supported Operation Turn Up, as it worked with vulnerable and intimidated victims and witnesses on a daily basis.

"All too often, we see the emotional pain suffered by victims and witnesses whom we have helped prepare to give evidence," he added.

"For them to find the strength to attend court, only for the alleged offender not to turn up, can be really devastating.

"For many victims, recovery from their trauma cannot begin until they know the offender has been convicted."