WITH AUDIO: Harrowing 999 calls of domestic violence victims

WITH AUDIO AND VIDEO: Thugs committing domestic violence are to be sent Valentine's Day cards warning that police are coming to get them.

The cards will be sent out this week as part of a fresh crackdown on domestic violence in the county.

The move comes as police prepare to deal with a surge in calls over the Valentine's Day period.

Now victims of domestic violence have come forward to highlight the psychological and physical trauma they have been through.

One woman, known only as Jo, has spoken publicly of the shocking violence to which she was subjected.

It began when her partner was made redundant – and came to a head when he threatened to kill her with a knife.

She said it was vital that people trapped in violent relationships sought help from the police and other agencies out there.

"Looking back, I don't know how I coped," she said.

"I was walking on eggshells."

Officials say that one in four women will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives – as well as one man in every six.

Statistics show that just over 6,200 incidents of domestic abuse were reported in the county between April and December last year – or a startling 25 calls every day.

And detectives say this is only the tip of the iceberg – with 35 incidents of abuse taking place on average before a victim reports it.

The fresh clampdown on such abuse is part of the county force's Operation NOVA, and will remain a police priority for at least the next two years.

Victims are being urged to come forward.

Lincoln Victim Support can be contacted on (01522) 542687, while Lincolnshire Police's non-emergency number is (01522) 532222.