THE latest figures showing a sharp rise in domestic violence cases in East Lancashire are worrying.

Around 10,755 people suffered violence at the hands of their partners last year, up by more than 2,700 in 2008.

Money worries and fears over unemployment have led to an increase in domestic violence, according to police.

The number of victims asking for help from Women's Aid in Blackburn has gone up by 11 per cent since January when the recession started to hit home.

The charity said it had also seen a rise in men reporting incidents of domestic violence, with 22 per cent of cases reported to them by male victims.

But the picture could be far worse as domestic violence is one of the most unreported crimes.

Police are taking a robust stance against the problem and are encouraging victims to come forward to report domestic violence.

There should be no room for complacency on the issue and we must take further action to crack down on domestic abuse.

There is no excuse for violence and anyone convicted must be severely punished by the courts.