AN East Lancashire MP has added his support for Forced Marriage Awareness week.

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson had campaigned for new laws making forced marriage a criminal offence that came in last month.

The Forced Marriage Awareness week runs from July 7 to 11 to coincide with school summer holidays.

Mr Stephenson said: “I am pleased to support Forced Marriage Awareness week. Now is a time when most young people are looking forward to a holiday and a break from the pressures of school.

“But for some, they face being forced into a marriage against their will. It is now a criminal offence to force someone into a marriage.

“I hope the awareness week will help victims to come forward.”