ANTI-CRIME campaigners have stepped up their drive against domestic violence in an attempt to prevent a rise in incidents over the Christmas period.

The number of incidents reported to police in York and Selby rose by 15 per cent last December, from 219 the year before to 253. Under its new Drinkhead campaign, the Safer York Partnership (SYP) is now hoping to alert people to the effect drink can have on their temper.

Posters bearing the slogan “the juice is just an excuse” shows a domestic violence scene involving a man assaulting a woman in the home, with the abuser’s head replaced by a drink.

The move follows the launch of the campaign earlier this month, which opened with posters warning against street-violence.

Amy Fenwick, the partnership’s antisocial behaviour co-ordinator, said then that the campaign sought to “hit home with strong, simple messages”.

A SYP spokesperson said yesterday: “Domestic abuse is a key part of the campaign as reported incidents and referrals to agencies rise significantly over Christmas and New Year.

“Police in York and Selby recorded 219 incidents in 2008/09 during December, and in 2009/10 253 incidents were reported for the same period – an increase by 15 per cent year on year.

“January is also problematic. Police in York and Selby recorded 239 incidents in 2008/09 and 271 incidents in 2009/10 – an increase by 13 per cent year on year.”

Along with the hard-hitting image, the posters carry contact details for the Independent Domestic Abuse Service, with its phone number, 01904 646630.

Information packs containing advice for victims and local contacts will also be given to police so victims can be helped as quickly as possible.

Packs may also be given to accident and emergency staff and ambulance paramedics.

The Drinkheads campaign was originally run in Wakefield and has been hailed nationally as an effective campaign.