MORE than 170 incidents of domestic abuse were reported to police in Ryedale in the past 11 months - but campaigners have stressed that help is available for victims.

The extent of the problem was highlighted at an awareness day hosted by Ryedale Domestic Abuse Forum at district council offices.

The event was attended by representatives of North Yorkshire Police, Women's Aid, the local authority and Ryedale Housing Association.

Kim Robertshaw, the council's housing services officer, told the meeting the authority could deal with people fleeing violence under homeless legislation.

"If we felt they were a priority, and in fear for their safety because of violence or the threat of violence at home, we would offer them accommodation straight away," she said.

Miss Robertshaw said that it was possible to send victims out of the area to safety and added that people approaching the council for help did not have to inform the police.

"Some people have just reached the end of their tether and don't want the police involved, but it won't jeopardise their case if the police are not called in," she said. "We can just help them with their housing needs and signpost them to other agencies that can help with their other needs."