Features

Domestic abuse survivor Maria Hopkins has written an open letter to Wiltshire residents about her ordeal, in a bid to help others in abusive relationships. Help is available.

Catherine Taylor is a Domestic Violence Disclosure Coordinator at Wiltshire Police. She regularly provides advice and disclosures to people who may be in an abusive relationship, under Clare's Law. Clare's Law enables people who are concerned about a partner to enquire with the police about whether their partner could be a risk, or may have an abusive past.

The former partner of a Swindon man who has been jailed for 11 years has spoken out about the systematic, violent, sexual and psychological abuse she suffered during their relationship. Edward Booth, 27, of Corfe Road, Toothill, was sentenced last month after a jury found him guilty of two counts of sexual assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. As well as serving an 11-year prison sentence, Booth was given a restraining order preventing him from contacting his victim, and was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life.

Domestic Violence Disclosure Coordinator Catherine Taylor has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Clare's Law and how the process works. If you have concerns about your partner who you think may be abusive, or may have an abusive past, you can make an application to your local police force for more information.

The family of Andraya Lyons, who was killed by her partner at her home in Swindon, in 2016, are sharing their story once again in a bid to help raise awareness of domestic abuse. "Andraya would bend over backwards to help anyone. She was living on a shoestring but she would have given anyone the last pound in her purse if they needed it." Gemma Webb says her older sister Andraya Lyons was the kindest person and the most loving mum to her two young sons.

PC Lyndsey Smith was awarded a Chief Constable's Commendation at our awards ceremony last week.

Police Constable Paul Davis was presented with a Chief Constables Commendation at our award ceremony this week.

Police Constable Pedro Wiltshire was awarded a Chief Constable's Commendation this week.

Alvina Kumar was recognised this week and received a Chief Constable's Certificate of Excellence.

Marjory MacCallum was presented with a Chief Constable's certificate of Recognition for Members of the Public this week at our awards ceremony.