Mr Grunshaw, who yesterday published his new Police and Crime Plan setting out strategic priorities for Lancashire Constabulary over the next four years, which includes a commitment to tackle stalking, says a review of stalking legislation is an important step forward to tackle what is a high impact crime.

In his plan he commits to working closely with Lancashire Constabulary to ensure that perpetrators are pursued and face the full force of the law, and make systematic improvements in how police respond to stalking to ensure effective investigation and support.

Mr Grunshaw is also recommissioning victim services across the county and will ensure stalking victims have dedicated, specialist support to help them move forward.

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, said: “There is more that needs to be done to improve how the criminal justice system responds to stalking cases, particularly around identifying patterns of behaviour rather than looking at incidents in isolation. Defining stalking in statutory guidance and setting out a legal framework to help support services work together will help to ensure people are not failed by vital information being missed.

“I’m pleased Government have recognised the often long-lasting effects of stalking, which causes serious distress, alarm and fear.

“These measures are an important part of my priority to tackle violence against women and girls, and the Government’s mission to halve VAWG within a decade.

“Policing has an important role to play in protecting victims and stopping perpetrators from inflicting harm and there must also be a focus on preventing these crimes from happening in the first place.”