"DON'T suffer in silence" is the message North Yorkshire Police wants stalking victims to hear.

To mark National Stalking Awareness Week this week, the force is joining the campaign tell people "stalking counts" and to assure people they take reports of stalking very seriously.

Just yesterday, Northallerton police revealed a 30-year-old man had been charged with stalking offences, and would appear in court next month.

DCI Andrea Kell said: "Stalking is a very serious crime which can have physical, psychological, social and economic effects upon its victims. We take reports of stalking very seriously and would encourage anyone who is suffering at the hands of a stalker to come forward and speak to us."

"You do not have to live in fear and put up with this person’s behaviour. There are steps that can be taken and a law that can be put in action to protect you and make this person stop, so you can live your life without fear or distress."

Police said that although the laws about stalking have got stronger in recent years, the number of victims coming forward is still low, possibly because people to not realise how many different types of behaviour should be called stalking. The definition of stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted behaviour that causes someone to feel distressed or afraid. It does not have to include violence.

DCI Kell have given victims advice on how they can bring about an end to the misery: "It’s a good idea to gather any evidence you can of the stalking you are experiencing.

"Keep a diary of events and write down as much information as you can about the incidents times and dates and document what it happening to you. Keep all evidence of any phone calls, emails and text messages and letters or gifts. Also take screenshots of any social media posts or pages, messages."

"Don’t engage with your stalker and take any action you can to ensure your own personal safety – consider carrying a personal alarm or downloading a personal safety app to your mobile such as www.hollieguard.com"

She added: "Come forward and contact the Police – you can dial 101 or attend your local police station.

"If you are ever in immediate danger always dial 999. If you do not want to contact the police at this time – please seek out support from other agencies such as the National Stalking Helpline or speak to friends and family about what is happening to you. Don’t suffer in silence."

To help raise awareness North Yorkshire Police have produced a leaflet on "Taking Stalking Seriously" which is available here.