Police in Airedale and North Bradford are to launch a three-day-blitz on domestic violence and violent crime in a bid to protect potential victims this Christmas.

Traditionally reports of domestic violence increase significantly over the Christmas and New Year period and the operation is an attempt at positive preventative action.

Last year Bradford Police dealt with more than 650 cases of domestic abuse in December alone.

Officers from across the force are today launching the operation to arrest those suspected of violence against their partners and also those wanted for violent offences.

Further suspects who are wanted for arrest but are still at large will also be contacted by letter and urged to hand themselves in before police apprehend them.

Police will call on people known to have a record of abuse against their partners to warn them that they are being watched and will face a Christmas behind bars if they offend again.

West Yorkshire Police as a force has a long-standing record of playing a leading role against domestic violence over the years and has introduced a number of initiatives to combat the problem.

These have included a Repeat Victimisation Programme which has seen officers circulate warning letters to offenders and keep a regular check on victims, and victimless prosecutions.

Detective Inspector John Mountain said: “The run-up to Christmas traditionally sees a rise in domestic violence and we want to make sure residents in Airedale and North Bradford know this is something which will not be tolerated.

“This three day campaign is intended to target those who we know have committed offences in terms of committing domestic violence and other types of violent crime and put them before the courts.

“There’s no excuse or justification for domestic abuse. Victims do have options and the Police, together with our partner agencies, are here to help them make informed choices to protect themselves and their families.”

Di Reed, manager of Keighley-based Domestic Violence Services, said: “Domestic violence is a terrible crime which impacts on a whole family and it is a sad fact that it does tend to increase at this time of year.

“We support this Police initiative to tackle known offenders and can provide free and confidential support for women and children who are the victims of this kind of abuse.”

For support and guidance regarding domestic violence call 01535 210999.