RESIDENTS of north Durham have been urged to put their names to a public declaration against domestic violence.

A large white board bearing the message Say No To Violence Against Women has gone on display at the Civic Centre, Chester-le-Street.

Campaigners are hoping as many people as possible will call in to put their names to the board, which features a backdrop of white ribbons - the international symbol of violence against women.

A similar board will be available for people to sign in Durham's Prince Bishops Centre tomorrow.

Then, at 1pm on Saturday, North West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong will make a short speech before releasing balloons from outside the town hall in Durham's Market Place.

The events have been organised by the North Durham Domestic Violence Forum, which works on behalf of victims of physical abuse in the area.

The forum is hoping the boards and the events will raise awareness of the problems and ensure women suffering at the hands of their partners know where to get help.

Police in Chester-le-Street and Durham recorded 567 complaints of domestic violence in the six months from April to September, a figure broadly similar to the same period last year.

North Durham Forum chairwoman Dot Neave said: "The aim of the week is to focus attention on what is a very serious issue, which affect hundreds of women in our area each year."

She added: "We hope that as many people as possible will sign up publicly and show their support for the say no message."

Police specialists in the north of the county say the force has targeted domestic violence in recent years.

Child and family protection officer PC Kath Sparrow said: "Violence in the home is often referred to as a hidden crime, because it invariably happens behind closed doors.

"This week should increase awareness, and give victims the confidence to come forward and realise they are not in a unique situation.

"Over the last few years an increasing number of victims have contacted the police and positive action has been taken, providing a safer environment for them and their families."

The week has been sponsored by Chester-le-Street District Council, Durham County Council, and Chester- le-Street and Durham Primary Care Group