Course to aid victims of violence

Figures show 40% of assaults in the area are domestic abuse

Self-defence classes are being offered to women in a West Yorkshire town in an effort to cut the number of victims of domestic abuse.

Officials from Bradford Council's 'Streets Ahead' project have organised the courses to reduce the fear of crime either at home or on the streets.

Council officers said 40% of all assaults in the Windhill area of Shipley were classed as domestic abuse.

The first course is being run at Bolton Woods Community Centre each Friday.

Coun Vanda Greenwood, chairman of Streets Ahead project in east Shipley, said: "I hope women will come along and take advantage of these free courses.

"It will make them feel safer in the street and in their homes and boost their confidence.

"The fear of crime is often bigger than the levels of actual crime but it is important that this fear is addressed and self-defence courses are a practical way to help alleviate these fears."