DOMESTIC violence was in focus during an evening held by a local charitable organisation to raise awareness of the problem.

Val White of Blackburn Soroptimists who helped put the event together said the evening had proved a "great success" after talks from police and social services experts in domestic violence.

Det Insp Joyce Green, domestic violence coordinator for Lancashire police told the audience at Holy Souls Church hall, Whalley New Road, Blackburn, about how the constabulary's attitude to investigating domestic violence had changed in recent years.

Julie Lambert, Lancashire County Council's child care manager, spoke about the impact the problem has on family life.

Other organisations attended the forum, along with the Mayor and Mayoress of Blackburn and other Soroptimist groups.