POLICE in Medway are putting extra resources into tackling domestic violence during a month-long campaign.

Officers say violence is a sad and often hidden Christmas and New Year "tradition" in too many homes in the area.

They are seeking to change what they term "this miserable pattern" by tasking extra resources between December 2 and January 2 to deal robustly with violent incidents, domestic violence in particular.

Chief Insp Des Keers stressed: "Sadly, we see a rise in domestic violence at this time of year. We know that the first call we get asking for help will rarely be on the first time that domestic violence takes place.

"The people who commit violent acts at home are very often repeat offenders. We will be paying close attention to people like this and, if they come to our attention, they can expect to be removed from the family home and brought to justice."

He added: “Our domestic violence liaison officers are experienced in dealing with these sensitive cases which often involve children as victims or witnesses. Their job is to protect and support victims in the event of a prosecution.

“Our aim is, where possible, to prevent domestic violence happening in the first place."