MORE than 60,000 incidents of domestic abuse were reported to Scottish police forces, with more than 2500 people having reported 11 or more incidents in the past, official statistics show.

Police recorded 60,080 incidents in 2012-13, up from 59,847 in the previous year, at a time when the problem is described as a "top priority".

Of the total, 61% involved repeat victims of abuse - about the same proportion as in 2011-12.

However, concern was raised that 2592 people had reported 11 or more incidents to police in the past.

Scottish Conservatives' leader Ruth Davidson said: "We need to discover why so many offenders are able to repeat violent abuse. If someone is being physically abused within the walls of their home, it is down to us as a society to provide help and support to ensure it stops.

"That can be achieved by improving the support network, giving people more of an option to escape their situation and coming down harder in the courts on those who think it acceptable to beat someone up on the basis they live together."

Equalities Minister Shona Robison said a new strategy targeting violence against women would be published next year.

"No-one should doubt the Scottish Government's determination and commitment to tackle domestic abuse," she said.

"These incidences of violence remain far too prevalent in our society. That is why we are taking action to help victims of such attacks and are delivering substantial financial support to help victims and prevent abuse from happening in the first place.

"I welcome the proactive and resolute response to domestic abuse from Police Scotland, which has made tackling domestic abuse and rape two of its top three priorities."

Half of all incidents led to the recording of a crime or offence, down from 54% in the previous year.

Of those, common assault accounted for 42% and threatening or abusive behaviour accounted for 19%.

Women were victims of men in 80% of all incidents, which was 1% lower than the previous year.

The Government said funding to tackle the problem had increased 62% since 2007 to £34.5 million between 2012 and 2015.

Police Scotland chief superintendent Bob Hamilton said: "We recognise the harrowing impact domestic abuse has on victims, their families and the wider community.

"In the last few years we have dedicated significant resources towards tackling domestic abuse. As well as supporting victims, we have placed a much greater emphasis on targeting repeat and serial offenders."

Lily Greenan, manager of Scottish Women's Aid, said: "We expect reported incidents of domestic abuse to continue to rise as the awareness of domestic abuse increases. We commend the high priority Police Scotland has given to tackling domestic abuse since its establishment in April."