BURNLEY Council is leading the fight against domestic violence in the town after it has become the first in the county to be awarded 'White Ribbon Town' status.

The White Ribbon Campaign is part of the international 16 Days of Action Against Gender Violence Campaign which runs from November 25 until December 10.

The award is given to councils that demonstrate their commitment to the aims of the campaign.

Every year organisations in Burnley participate in raising awareness of the issues associated with violence against women.

Coun Neil Mottershead, the council’s executive member for community safety, said: “This is a major boost for the ongoing campaign against domestic violence in our borough.

“It recognises the good work that’s going on, much of it unseen but work that’s making a massive difference to people’s lives.”

Detective Inspector Derry Crorken, from the Burnley Community Safety Partnership, said: “The response to domestic violence is a priority for the police in Burnley and dedicated detectives will investigate incidents and provide continued support and protection for victims.

“It is sad to say that on average a victim will suffer numerous incidents of domestic abuse before reporting the matter.

“It is also a sad fact that domestic abuse has an adverse affect on the children who live in households where abuse takes place.”

Louise Howorth, Burnley Council’s domestic violence co-ordinator, said: “The council is very proud that this national campaign has recognised the excellent work being carried out in Burnley to tackle domestic violence.”