Nearly 9,000 incidents of domestic violence were recorded in Bradford last year - an increase of 17 per cent.

But domestic violence groups have welcomed the figures, saying they show more victims are coming forward and that measures in place to tackle the issue are working.

Stuart Fogden, of the Bradford-based group Staying Put, said one in five women experienced domestic violence in the home, and the vast majority of the calls came from women.

"The 17 per cent, we think, is down to a better police reporting system, and a more accurate means of recording domestic violence incidents," he said.

"There is a much wider range of support services now, and more women are willing to come forward."

Mr Fogden's comments were endorsed by Diana Reed, project manager of Keighley's Domestic Violence Services.

"It is very difficult to measure success when looking at domestic violence. Often increases in figures actually means people are doing their job better and doing more," she said.

And Councillor Lynne Joyce, Bradford Labour Group's spokesman for crime and community safety, added: "This is a very positive thing. More women are coming forward and that is absolutely key to dealing with the issue.

''It shows that domestic violence is no longer socially acceptable and no longer something women should have to put up with.

"It does not necessarily mean this is happening more but that the authorities are taking it seriously and are more prepared to follow incidents up and prosecute offenders."

West Yorkshire Police received 8,607 complaints of domestic violence last year - and national figures suggest this number represents less than a third of actual incidents. Eighty five per cent of the calls from the Bradford district were from women, and 35 per cent of the incidents were repeat offences. In 42 per cent of the incidents children were present.

Bradford Council leader Margaret Eaton said: "Reducing domestic violence is a priority for the Council because of the devastating effects it has on families, especially young people.

"We have a domestic violence strategy for the district and the Council, police and other agencies have been working closely together to raise awareness of the problem. We will continue to work with other agencies to support those whose lives are blighted by domestic violence and to change the behaviour of those responsible."

Anyone experiencing domestic violence can ring Staying Put's free helpline on 0800 0856206.