A DOMESTIC violence victim has re-lived an abusive relationship with an ex-partner as she gave her support to a new crackdown.

Anna, not her real name, urged victims' friends and families to get help to mark the launch of a domestic violence strategy.

Lancashire Domestic Violence Partnership details how all agencies can respond more effectively by working together.

It was launched at Preston's Gujarat Centre by Minister for Justice, Harriet Harman.

The partnership comprises delegates from the police, CPS, the Courts Service, National Probation Service, Lancashire Youth Offending Team, Victim Support and NHS representatives.

Anna, 57, who lives in Darwen, suffered domestic abuse for many years, resulting in agoraphobia, depression, low confidence and low self-esteem.

She eventually rang the Wish Centre in Blackburn to get support.

During her years of abuse she developed a flair for art and says it became a distraction for her and a way of expressing her feelings.

She was even awarded the prize of Learning Skills Champion and now runs the craft group at the Wish Centre single-handedly.

She said: "I was at school when I met him. I was 15 and he was 17.

"When I was 19 he threatened me with a penknife because he thought I was having an affair.

"He was very jealous and controlling. One day he'd be full of compliments, the next he would chuck me out of bed because of something stupid like I had spots or a rash.

"But I still thought he was the bee's knees. It was more emotional abuse with him and the threat of violence."

Anna added: "You could see the darkness in his eyes when he'd had a drink. I got lots of help and support from the Wish Centre and now I'm putting something back.

"Had I not accessed support services, I would not be free from abuse."

The strategy aims to save lives by intervening earlier to limit suffering and give greater public confidence in the Criminal Justice System.

Bob Marshall, chief crown prosecutor and chair of Lancashire Criminal Justice Board, said: "We want everyone to feel safe in their own homes.

"We hope this will encourage more victims to get help."