Domestic violence in some of Bradford's villages and rural areas is to be tackled by a new special worker.

A survey of the Otley and Aireborough areas found projects in the district did not meet their needs as domestic violence services in large urban areas were already overstretched.

Behind Closed Doors, which covers the Otley and Aireborough areas, is now to expand with lottery funding.

The three-year Community Fund money will pay for community development worker Kate Goodwin.

Home Office research shows that one in four women experiences domestic violence at some time during her life.

The needs of local women were identified through the research, which was funded through the Lottery's Awards for All programme. It found domestic violence services in the nearest cities were already busy and not suitable for women living in Otley, Guiseley, Menston, Yeadon and the surrounding districts.

Women surveyed said they didn't know who to turn to or when they did seek help got a negative response.

Three of the eight women surveyed had been living with domestic violence for more than 25 years and all but two had suffered at the hands of their partner.

All the women experienced mental and emotional violence, most lived with threats of violence and almost three quarters suffered physical violence.

The research also showed that agencies including the police, schools, churches, councils and health organisations knew they needed to improve their response.

Ms Goodwin said the findings dispelled the myth that domestic violence mainly happened in less-well-off areas.

It showed that 84.8 per cent of the population in the area covered by the report were from professional, managerial or skilled occupations.

"Domestic violence happens across the board regardless of class," Ms Goodwin said.

Behind Closed Doors is looking for women volunteers to help run the project. They need to be supportive, have good communication skills and be willing to give a minimum of four hours a week.

"We actively encourage women who have experienced violence from a known man as the relevant experience can be useful," said Ms Goodwin. "They need the ability to support women on what may be a long-term basis. We are not a refuge - we will support women whether they choose to stay in a violent relationship or leave it."

Ms Goodwin said the aim was to extend their telephone helpline service to open three days a week at different times.

They are also hoping to develop links with other organisations, such as the Women's Institute, to raise awareness.

To get involved, contact (01943) 850555.