HUNDREDS of gifts for victims of abuse have been collected by police officers and civilian staff.

The presents have been collected at police stations around the county and will be distributed to refuges across North Yorkshire over the Christmas period.

This is the third year the force’s Protecting Vulnerable Persons Unit has organised such a collection and the gifts are being given to victims who have been forced to flee their homes and leave everything they own behind.

Chief Constable Dave Jones said: “When most people are enjoying the festive season with family and friends, there are others who have to leave their homes to escape violence and abuse.

“We see all too often the devastating consequences of that abuse which, sadly increases over the festive season.

“Refuges provide safety and security and a step on the way to breaking the cycle of abuse, helping victims to re-build their lives.”

He added: “The Christmas gift collection is a simple gesture to help make the festive season a bit more bearable and let victims know that there are people who care. I’d like to thank our officers and staff for their generosity.”