It follows changes in the law, which mean police can take direct action over domestic abuse, rather than wait for the victim to press charges.

In all, 44 cameras have been given to stations around the county so they can be on hand at short notice.

Officers said the cameras could be vital in cases where the victim is too scared to go to court.

Recording evidence

PC Nicky Duckworth said: "If we can do our job properly in gathering good quality evidence we may actually be able to take the prosecution forward without the support of the victim in some cases.

"Such a move would, of course, have to be done in close consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service.

"A picture speaks a thousands words - we are not just talking injuries here - we are talking about evidence of a disturbance at a scene.

"This would make it very difficult for the parties involved to subsequently deny anything had happened in that room."