SOLDIERS based at Tynedale’s Albemarle Barracks have become the latest recruits to a growing network of Domestic Violence Champions across the North-East.

As part of an initiative launched by Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, troops from 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery (3RHA) have received training in dealing with colleagues who may confide in them, and to share concerns about others they think may be suffering from domestic abuse.

The role was introduced as part of a Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in the Workplace policy.

Those trained at Albemarle Barracks bring the total number of champions within the network to more than 600.

“It’s fantastic to have the Ministry of Defence in our area on board with this,” said Commissioner Baird.

3RHA’s Lt Col Matthew Murphy said he was delighted to have had the opportunity to bring the training into the barracks.

“The Army and my regiment cannot regard itself as immune from incidents of domestic violence and the best way forward is to educate our people on how we support victims and highlight concerns,” he said.