People of both sexes around Whitehill & Bordon have worn a white ribbon in support of a WI campaign to end violence against women.

The Bordon Belles WI recently handed out homemade white ribbons to organisations around the town in support of the No More Violence Against Women campaign by the National Federation of Wis.

Members felt it was the perfect time to support the 16-day campaign given the recent sexual assault in Bordon Inclosure which “shocked and saddened” the community.

They and their counterparts hope the campaign will raise more awareness of an international issue as one in three women globally will experience some kind of violence during their lifetime.

People who wear the adornment make the White Ribbon Promise to “never use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women”.

The campaign has been enthusiastically backed locally with Whitehill Town Council, Wey Valley Football Club (U14s) and the 1st Headley Scouts making the promise.

The support of men has especially heartened the Belles as they believe a challenge to harmful attitudes and behaviour is part of the solution and can bring about an end to the fear of everyday violence for women.

“We were very happy to support the Bordon Belles WI White Ribbon campaign,” said David Macgregor, Wey Valley U14 Warriors manager.

“As a sports organisation we believe it is very important to encourage healthy attitudes and behaviours, especially among our young lads.”

Sarah-Jane Bellis President of Bordon Belles WI said: “We were shocked and saddened by the recent violence against a young woman in our community.

“With our white ribbons and support from local groups we want to show the people of Whitehill & Bordon, that we want and deserve a place where all are safe to live free from fear of violence.”