Brutes lash out as England crash out

Reporter: KAREN DOHERTY
Date online: 29 June 2010

Domestic violence surged after England’s World humiliating exit at the hands of Germany.
The North West Ambulance Service dealt with 77 incidents in the wake of Sunday’s match.

This was up 127 per cent from 34 following England’s 1-0 win against Slovenia four days earlier.

Director of emergency services Derek Cartwright said: “This is a very sobering statistic and one which we found extremely shocking.

“We should also bear in mind that these are only the incidents which have been reported and required an ambulance.

“There will be many more where the victim is too afraid to seek help for their injuries and we would urge them to do so as soon as possible.”

A spokesman for the domestic violence charity Women’s Aid added: “We launched our own campaign to coincide with the start of the World Cup because, in the past, figures have indicated a rise in the reporting of incidents of domestic violence around major sporting events.

“We know that excessive alcohol can make the frequency and severity of existing violence worse, and perpetrators may use alcohol to excuse their behaviour.

“But there are many people who drink and enjoy sporting events who do not abuse their partners.

“No matter what the excuse it does not remove responsibility for their behaviour.”

“We urge anyone who is afraid and who needs help in freeing themselves from a violent relationship to seek support at www.womensaid.org.uk or by contacting the police.

“People do not have to suffer in silence.”