Incidents of domestic abuse fell in Epsom and Ewell this Christmas compared to last year’s figures, Surrey Police has revealed.

Figures for reported incidents fell from 60 in 2009/10 to 40 in 2010/11, with incidents peaking on New Year’s Day.

Commenting on the campaign results Detective Superintendent Ray Marley said: “Domestic abuse is one of the ongoing tragedies which continues to impact on the quality of life for too many Surrey residents, and we are continually striving to improve performance in a close working partnership with the other agencies involved.

“I appeal for victims to report when they are suffering either to us or to one of the other agencies involved that they feel comfortable talking to. If you know of a friend or family member who is suffering do encourage and support them to report incidents and if necessary report it directly.

“It is likely that at some time during the coming year detectives will be investigating a death which may have been prevented if the preceding abuse had been reported.”

Last year 38 per cent of reported incidents across Surrey involved repeat victims, this year 36 per cent involved victims who have suffered previously.