A DAY of action drove home the message against violence in the home.

The event, supported by Blackburn Council, was meant to highlight the problems of violence faced in the home by many women and children at the hands of men.

Stalls on Blackburn Market and in the shopping centre were staffed by council employees and volunteers who offered information and support to victims.

In addition, a special advice service was set up in Cobden Court which featured self-defence displays and information from Lancashire Police.

The Day Of Action, on Saturday, follows up the council's involvement with Zero Tolerance, the national anti-domestic violence campaign.

Mayor of Blackburn, Coun Maureen Bateson, said the council had given its full backing to the day of action.

"Violence in the home against women and children is a major problem, " she said.

"In Lancashire last year, there were 1,629 reported cases of such violence, but it is estimated that only two per cent of all cases get reported.

Coun Bateson said the council was already supporting the Zero Tolerance initiative and a tree and commemorative plaque at the front of the town hall in King William Street marked the authority's commitment to the campaign which comes to a close with International Women's Day on March 8.

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