Research connects domestic violence and major sports events

Durham Police expect a potential increase in drink-fuelled attacks after research showed a link between domestic violence and major sports tournaments.

Specialist officers will use the camcorders to record evidence of injuries and damage to property.

The force was recently stretched to its limit during England's World Cup debut.

Hot weather combined with football fever to made the weekend of 10 and 11 June one of the busiest on record for Durham Police.

On the Saturday alone, the force received more than 900 calls.

'High emotions'

Officers were on standby ahead of England's second match against Trinidad and Tobago on Tuesday.

Det Insp Eric Malkin, of Durham Police, said: "Research suggests there is a link between domestic violence and major sporting events and those who work in the field of domestic violence have raised concerns, based on their past experience, about the potential for a rise in incidents during the tournament.

"Emotions often run high during football matches and, fuelled by alcohol, a domestic situation can easily become volatile."

The initiative will run on England match days throughout the World Cup in Germany.