DOMESTIC violence incidents in Darlington doubled over Christmas.
In the past three weeks, police have attended 272 cases in the town, twice the amount in the same period last year.
PC Lynsey Artley, domestic violence officer for Darlington, said: "On average police officers in Darlington are usually called out to 160 to 180 domestic violence incidents a month. But from December 13 to January 4, officers have been to 272 incidents.
"This is a high figure and domestic violence is a problem, but we have a number of initiatives designed to help victims of abuse."
Safe houses have been full, with some women and families having to spend Christmas in bed- and-breakfast accommodation.
Joy Easterby, Darlington's domestic violence co-ordinator, said: "This is an extremely busy time for us and at the moment the shelter in Darlington is full to capacity.
"Sadly, sometimes the refuge is full and we obviously try to get them a place at another refuge in the region but when this is not possible we offer them bed and breakfast accommodation."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article