LANCASHIRE police are taking a tough stance on domestic violence and training officers to deal with the problem.

Officers and support staff are taking part in the specialist training programme at Barnoldswick police station which covers everything from dealing with offenders to caring for victims.

As part of the training project a play about the problem was staged at the Silverman Hall in Nelson.

Preston theatre company Certain Curtain Theatre performed The Knot, a graphic portrayal of domestic violence. The play gave the audience of professionals and experts a better understanding of some of the issues they may have to deal with.

Another performance for police staff only will be staged at the hall on September 21.

PC Karen Kenworthy, one of five specialist domestic violence liaison officers in the Pennine division which covers Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale, said: "Domestic violence is a serious crime. Last year 4,682 incidents were reported.