Women march through Northampton to 'reclaim the night'

Placards and banners with stark messages on them featured heavily in the march

Organisers of a "reclaim the night" march said they hoped it sent a clear message that violence against women would not be tolerated.

The protest march took place during the weekend through Northampton town centre.

Drummers led women with placards and loud hailers down Wellingborough Road and along Abington Street.

Organisers said they received a lot of support from people as they passed along the route.

The event was organised by Northamptonshire Rape Crisis, with involvement from other groups.

The chief executive of the Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service, Dr Rachel Duncan, said: "There was a real sense of solidarity and we also garnered support from people as we passed, which was really heart-warming and encouraging.

"A woman is killed by a man every three days in the UK and every week three women take their own lives as a result of experiencing domestic abuse.

"Hopefully the march raised awareness of this violence, which comes in all forms and can happen to anyone, and sent a clear message that violence should not and will not be tolerated.

"Women have a right to be safe in their own homes and on the streets."

If you are affected by issues raised in this story, BBC Action Line has information on organisations that can help.

Marchers went down Wellingborough Road and on to Abington Street