Scores of women will march through Oxford to make a stand against sexual and domestic violence.
Mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts and grandmothers will make their public stand at the Reclaim The Night march through the city centre on Saturday.
The all-female walk has been organised to highlight a range of services which can support victims of domestic abuse, sex crimes and sexual harassment.
Campaigners say there have been over 1,500 reported incidents of domesitc violence in the past six months and 71 reported rapes this year in the county.
Claire Cochrane, of the Oxford Reclaim The Night group, said the march was organised following successful events in other cities, such as London and Manchester.
She said: “We want to raise awareness of the ongoing experience that women have in facing violence, even in a city as friendly as Oxford.
“It is a friendly place to live and we know it is a safe city, but even here, just like everywhere else, women still face abuse and violence.
“The marches have a wonderful atmosphere. It is a safe place to be, but you still feel empowered by being together with other women, raising awareness about such a difficult and painful subject.”
Liz Jones, domestic and sexual violence co-ordinator for Oxford City Council, said the 71 reports of rape showed the seriousness of the issue.
There were also 1,512 recorded crimes of domestic violence in the county between April 1 and the end of September, she added.
Ms Jones said: “Sexual violence and assault are a real threat to women in our society and we need to make a stand and let people know that this is absolutely unacceptable.”
Last week, the Oxford Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre (OSARCC) announced it had extended its helpline hours to allow victims to call between 11.30am and 2pm on Fridays.
The helpline also operates on Sundays between 6pm and 8.30pm, Mondays between 6.30pm and 9pm and Thursdays between 6.30pm and 9pm.
Sgt Mike Wallen, a specially trained officer for women and men who have experienced sexual violence, said: “It is vitally important that victims of sexual violence are provided with the appropriate support and advice.
“OSARCC already provides a fantastic service to victims and the new hours of the helpline will greatly enhance the service and assist victims in Oxfordshire.”
The march begins at Gloucester Green at 6.30pm, and will be followed by a mixed rally at East Oxford Community Centre.
To find out more, send an email to oxrtn@yahoo.co.uk. OSARCC can be contacted at osarcc@gmail.com or on 01865 726295.
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