Modern slavery victims have been rescued by police in Cumbria with officers warning that the crime is not limited to big cities.

Between September last year and August the county's police force say they've dealt with eight offences which come under the Modern Slavery Act.

Of these, two were in north Cumbria, five were in the west of the county and one in the south.

The offences included labour exploitation, sexual exploitation and forced or compulsory labour.

Cumbria Police have released the shocking figures as they today join in with a regional week-long campaign to raise awareness of modern day slavery and human trafficking.

Detective Inspector Craig Smith said: "People may have the misconception that modern day slavery doesn’t happen in Cumbria, and that it is only an issue for big cities.

"However, human trafficking and slavery can happen anywhere and I would urge anyone who has concerns to report them to the police immediately.

"We work hard to protect vulnerable people and stop any possible exploitation as quickly as possible, and to bring anyone found responsible for these horrific crimes to justice.

"I would like to stress anyone of any race or background could be victim of modern day slavery. However, offenders target people who are vulnerable and isolated – which can mean people who do not speak the language or do not have friends or family in the country could be more easily preyed upon.

"We often rely on the public for valuable information and evidence when investigating these type of crimes. I would urge people to take the time to learn the signs and get in touch if you have any suspicions that something is not quite right."

The campaign, which is in operation throughout the north west this week, is focused on asking members of the public whether they would recognise the signs of modern day slavery.

Police say they include:

Scared and withdrawn

No confidence

Unexplained injuries

May live and work in same place

No access to passport or documents

Limited contact with family, or outside world

Doesn’t know home or work address

Forced or intimidated to work, with low or no pay

Distrustful

Poor hygiene and unkempt appearance

Speaks little English

Cumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said: "Modern slavery is sadly a reality here in Cumbria as elsewhere and it is an appalling crime resulting in the exploitation of vulnerable people, we must act to stamp it out.

"If anyone has information or concerns about this type of crime they should contact the police. The impact on victims and their families is considerable often involving intimidation, violence and even imprisonment. Victims can be terrified and feel there is no way out. We must help to stop this awful crime."