A BIN wagon carrying a message against domestic violence has been touring a borough in a bid to tackle a seasonal spike in violence against women.

The specially decorated Pendle Council refuse lorry has been on the streets over the festive season with a message advertising the 'White Ribbon Campaign'.

It urges people 'Never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women'.

Pendle Council's corporate director Philip Mousdale said: "There’s always a steep rise in domestic violence over the festive season, with a spike in incidents reported to the police.

“At Christmas and New Year the combination of financial pressure, alcohol and being cooped up in closed quarters, can put an extra burden on relationships,”

“For many people this is a tough time of year. Problems can escalate and in an abusive relationship it can lead to violence.

"That’s why we have a bin wagon carrying a giant White Ribbon message around Pendle."