Linda Ashman delivers beer mats to Paul Greig
at The Standard in Northallerton

THOUSANDS of beer mats are being delivered to pubs across the Hambleton district of the Yorkshire Dales in a campaign to keep the problem of domestic abuse in the spotlight.

"As the excitement of Christmas continues to build up there are many families who dread the festive season - it is full of fear and dread not glad tidings. So many Christmases are ruined by domestic violence," said Domestic Abuse Officer, Linda Ashman.

"Something as simple as the noise from a Christmas cracker can be enough to trigger a barrage of abuse. Domestic abuse can affect any family at any time. It can be physical, emotional, threatening and intimidating - and it can destroy lives.

"Christmas is meant to be a happy time but for many living in our districts it will be a time of fear and pain."

She said that the beer mats which carry a hard hitting photo of a fist and the message 'hit me, kick me, punch me, love me' urge people not to suffer in silence and contact one of the many help lines available.

"These beer mats are going into pubs across the district. We hope they help people who are vulnerable and haven't asked for help - they can slip the beer mat into their pockets and have all the contacts they need."

• Anyone needing help should call:
  
  
• Women's Aid 07971 489187 / 01904 646630
  
• Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
  
• Victim Support 0845 0710871
  
• Police non-emergency 0845 60 60 247
  
• Male Advice Line 0808 801 0327
  
• Childline 0800 1111