CHESHIRE Police have announced a crackdown on domestic abuse during the World Cup.

Domestic abuse reports often spike during football tournaments, and Cheshire Police is gearing up to ensure abusers are brought to justice.

Officers will also have an increased presence in areas such as town centres, and other night-time hotspots.

It is expected that licensed premises like bars and pubs will be busier than usual due to the World Cup being shown.

The police will be sending 'safety vehicles' to these hotspots - vehicles will have onboard safety equipment such as defibrillators, first aid kits, phone chargers and bottles of water.

They will be staffed by police officers and community safety specialists from partner agencies who will be on hand to ensure that anyone in need of help is cared for until they are able to go home safely.  

Uniformed and plainclothes officers will be mingling in pubs and clubs watching for inappropriate behaviour and taking swift action against those looking to cause harm.

Runcorn and Widnes World: Cheshire Police have also sent letters to those arrested for domestic abuse during the Euros last summerCheshire Police have also sent letters to those arrested for domestic abuse during the Euros last summer (Image: Newsquest)

The police will also be dedicating some vehicles specifically to responding to domestic abuse callouts, which promises to shorten the time victims have to wait for the police to arrive.

Ahead of the tournament, the police also sent letters to anyone arrested for domestic abuse during the Euros tournament last summer, warning perpetrators about the punishments for offenders.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer said: “Sadly we know all too well that an increase in domestic abuse offences can coincide with major football tournaments, so I’m pleased to see the constabulary taking robust action to prevent and tackle it as we approach the World Cup.

“I urge anyone experiencing domestic abuse at any time of the year to report this to the police, so you can get the support you deserve and offenders can be dealt with appropriately.”

Superintendent Claire Jesson said: “What’s often unseen and away from the pitch, is the increase of domestic abuse offences that are reported during football tournaments. 

“Cheshire’s police officers are only too familiar with how football can bring out the best in people but also the worst.  

“While we recognise that not all offenders are male and not all victims are female, statistically domestic abuse remains a predominantly male-on-female offence. 

“And all too often we see male passions for football turn to aggression towards the women and girls in their lives.

“These are the times when we see a tangible spike and we are ready to act.”