A charity that supports those affected by domestic abuse has been given a cash boost.

Cheshire Without Abuse, also known as MyCWA, supports individuals and families in Knutsford and the surrounding areas.

It has launched a Christmas appeal to raise money and awareness for victims, ahead of the anticipated seasonal rise in cases.

The charity, which was founded in 1977, has its headquarters in Crewe and has received its first donation from breakfast company and major employer in the town, Mornflake.

MyCWA is now hoping that other businesses and organisations will follow suit as it approaches its busiest time of year.

The charity has launched a Christmas appeal (Image: Peter David Robinson) Saskia Lightburn-Ritchie, chief executive, said: "The level of demand for our services is nothing like I’ve ever known, and I’ve been in this field for more than 30 years now.

"It’s an epidemic. And now we face Christmas.

"Despite being a joyful time for many, this time of year is sadly a ‘perfect storm’ for domestic abuse with victims spending more time inside with abusers, more alcohol typically consumed, and more financial pressures on families - along with the pressure to create ‘perfect’ memories.

"Our helpline and refuge are usually swamped during the festive season and into January, so we are deeply grateful to Mornflake at this busy time.

"We couldn’t do what we do without the kindness and generosity of businesses and individuals in the community and hope it will encourage more support."

Saskia Lightburn-Ritchie has said their helpline is swamped during the festive season (Image: Peter David Robinson) The charity supported almost 4,000 adults and children last year through services including refuge accommodation, recovery programmes, children’s services, peer support groups, and behaviour change interventions.

Mornflake, a family business since 1675, is a regular supporter of charitable organisations.

James Lea, managing director, said: "Christmas should be a joyful time and it’s terribly sad to know it proves the exact opposite for so many local families.

"We felt it was important to help highlight the work of MyCWA which works hard all year to support victims of abuse, never more so than at Christmas."

To donate or learn more about MyCWA's Christmas appeal, visit their website.