MEN donned high heels and joined a group of around 50 people on a one-mile walk around the town centre this afternoon (Friday) raising awareness of the White Ribbon Campaign which aims to end male violence against women.

Amongst the men swapping their shoes for stilettos were Earlestown ward councillor Charlie Preston and members of social action group Youth Aflame Joe Higgins, Nathan Appleton and Lee Hackett.

This is the third time St Helens - where rates of domestic violence are higher than average - has held a walk to show its support for national campaign White Ribbon Day, which is held on November 25 each year.

To mark the occasion, white ribbons were being displayed on council buildings and vehicles - and the white ribbon flag was flying above the town hall.

A fire engine was stationed in Victoria Square displaying the message 'Domestic abuse knows no gender' to highlight the issue of domestic violence against men.

Joe Higgins and Lee Hackett were wearing three-inch heels but Nathan Appleton had the greatest challenge in a pair of wooden six-inch mules - with socks.

Lee said: "This is a great cause and more needs to be done to highlight it. It's shocking that it happens in this day and age."

St Helens Council's cabinet member for safer communities, Councillor Lisa Preston, said: "The council, along with our community safety partners, fully support the aims of the White Ribbon Campaign. We continue to work to identify those who are victims of male violence and strive to ensure we hold perpetrators of violence to account for their actions.

"Domestic abuse involves a wide range of violent or controlling behaviour, so no matter the circumstances, all who have suffered or who are currently suffering abuse - whether physical, emotional, sexual or even financial - are encouraged to come forward."

Residents, particularly men, are also being encouraged to sign the White Ribbon pledge to vow never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

To sign the pledge and for more information about the campaign, visit sthelens.gov.uk/whiteribbon.

Anyone needing help or advice can call the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate on 743200.