THE work of a North-East town to tackle domestic abuse and violence towards women has been recognised with a national award.

The White Ribbon Campaign granted Middlesbrough with White Ribbon status as part of an ongoing effort to stand against and raise awareness of the issue.

The campaign encourages men to unite against violence towards women and Middlesbrough Council has pledged to continue working with organisations, including Middlesbrough FC, Cleveland Police and Teesside schools to spread the word.

Councillor Mick Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s executive member for supporting communities, said: “While ideally there should be no need for a campaign such as this, so long as there is we need to be unequivocal in where we stand.

“For that reason it is gratifying that Middlesbrough Council and the town have been recognised for the work we do in tackling and opposing domestic abuse.

“We hope this recognition will encourage more men in the town to stand up and speak out against violence towards women.”

Middlesbrough will retain its White Ribbon status for two years.

For more information or to sign the White Ribbon Campaign pledge, visit whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/makepledge