Stalking Hotline Launched

Five years after a Kent woman was shot dead by her ex-boyfriend, the first helpline for stalking victims has gone live.

Clare Bernal from Tunbridge Wells was killed as she worked at a London department store - the man who did it was due in court for harassing her. Clare's mum has been involved in setting up the helpline.

The confidential service, which has been developed with the police, will have one number — 0300 636 0300 — for callers anywhere in the UK.

According to the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, stalking affects about 1.5 million people a year.

A study by the University of Leicester found that a third of victims said they had lost a job or relationship or had been forced to move because of stalking.