THE fight against domestic violence in Hampshire has seen the number of attacks reported more than double in one year.

Thousands of residents are falling victim to behind-closed-doors physical and sexual abuse every year, the latest report reveals.

Campaigners battling to lift the veil on the "hidden crime" say the 128 per cent increase in reported incidents proves people are less scared about coming forward.

However there are fears the real number of attacks could be much higher with countless victims too frightened to tell anyone, let alone the police.

New figures show that one in 169 Hampshire residents was raped, stabbed or beaten in 2000-2001 - an average of 19 people being attacked every single day.

In 12 months, the county has seen the fourth highest increase in reports made throughout England and Wales.

That means more than 7,000 people - mainly women - have admitted to being attacked by someone close to them when the front door closes.

The report comes as Southampton's victim support workers launched the awareness-raising white ribbon campaign during International Day Against Domestic Violence.

City mayor Chris Kelly turned out at the Bargate to help members of the Domestic Violence Forum for Southampton release 100 white balloons.

She said: "Domestic violence will not be tolerated. We want to encourage everyone who suffers to speak up and to speak out safely.

"Southampton City Council has always supported the work of the domestic violence forum. We have always had a policy of supporting people who suffer from domestic violence. The work of the forum is very important."

Jackie Compton, chairwoman of the forum, said domestic violence, particularly against women, is a national problem.

She added: "Domestic violence is a hidden crime and people forget about it. Confidence in reporting has gone up. People are more likely to report now."

Anyone living with domestic violence should contact Hampshire police on 0845 045 45 45 or Southampton Women's Aid advice line on 023 8071 0068.