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Women's Refuges in Northamptonshire face being shut by July, unless Women’s Aid organisations can raise funds urgently to keep them open.

This news comes as police nationally are spotlighting the issue of abuse, by tweeting about the incidents they attend, using #domesticabuse.

There are currently 68 refuge places in Northamptonshire proving accommodation and support to women who have escaped from abusive relationships.

Reporter Willy Gilder explains what’s happening and talks to abuse victims Annette and Louise. Stuart talks to Emma, who is staying in a local refuge, to Julie Coles, Deputy Director of Nene Valley Christian Refuge, and to Stephanie Challis, Service Manager of the Sunflower Centre in Northampton.

Also:

• the number of jobs on offer locally is at its highest for 18 months, according to a new study
• a major development at Northampton Road in Brackley is given the go ahead
• Oundle gears up for the inaugural Women's Cycling Tour
• another Inspirational Woman of Northampton nominee
• Ian Hunter previews the Saints semi-final and the 6 Nations clash between England & Wales
• previewing Northampton Town’s match at Scunthorpe