Police have issued a stern statement warning of possible prosecutions as well as the long term implications of racist abuse after several Manchester United players were subjected to utterly deplorable comments on social media after last nights defeat in the Europa League Finals match between the club and Spanish side Villarreal.

After checking his social media at the end of the game, Manchester United star Marcus Rashford described how both he and several of his teammates had been subjected to racist comments made by online trolls.

He revealed to his horror that one of his abusers appeared to be a maths teacher in a position to teach young children.

In a statement issued to the press this afternoon, Assistant Chief Constable for Greater Manchester Police, Chris Sykes said:

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"We are aware of a number of racially aggravated social media posts made yesterday evening towards numerous Manchester United players.

"We are working through the posts from yesterday, which originate from countries across the world as well as the UK, to investigate these crimes. Tackling hate crime remains a priority for GMP. We take these reports very seriously and are working with our partners to ensure those responsible are identified.

"Nobody should be subject to hateful language and abuse and it is deeply upsetting not only to those who receive these comments, but to anyone who witnesses it on a public forum.

"Those who make these posts subject themselves, not just to criminal proceedings but to long-term implications to their personal and professional lives by making these comments.

"We would always encourage anyone who has been a victim, or witness of hate crime to report it at the earliest opportunity via 101, LiveChat or online. Alternatively you can visit www.letsendhatecrime.com."

 

salford.media wishes to make it clear by reaffirming that we take a zero tolerance approach to racism in our Facebook Groups and other Social Media, anyone who is found to be breaching our rules will be ejected, blocked and banned without warning or notification.

The only way to tackle racism is if we all tackle the problem together.

Last week, Greater Manchester Police joined other forces up and down the country as part of National Week of Action to help tackle County Lines – when organised crime gangs exploit children and vulnerable people, forcing them to move or store drugs, drugs money and weapons through cohesion, control and intimidation.

The criminal gangs will use a dedicated phone line to organise the movement and sale of the drugs, which can be in one area, or across different parts of the UK.

In the week alone, teams from GMP executed 15 warrants, made 14 arrests and seized over £7,000 worth of Class A Drugs, and 3.5kg Class B Drugs. In addition to targeting those behind these crimes, three victims were identified, and 26 safeguarding referrals were submitted for those at risk of being exploited, aged between 2 and 46.

Detective Inspector Julie Adams from GMP's Public Protection Serious Crime Division:

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"The results from this week of action speak volumes, and highlight our commitment to tackling organised crime, and protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.

"Officers have worked hard to develop intelligence prior to this week, and it is great to see the purse activity which has taken place to target those responsible for exploiting children and vulnerable adults here in Greater Manchester, and beyond.

"As well as the proactive policing in terms of warrants, arrests and the seizure of drugs, cash and firearms, which I have no doubt will prove highly disruptive to the organised criminal gangs, we have worked with partners to help raise awareness of Child Criminal Exploitation, working with schools and businesses across Greater Manchester. As a parent myself, if this encourages children and adults alike to think twice about someone's behaviour, whether this is their friend, son, sister, then we have achieved what we set out to do.

"To follow the week of action, we are also holding a question and answer session with the public on Thursday 3 June, between 6-8pm on our the main GMP Facebook page. The Q&A will offer a safe space to talk about Child Criminal Exploitation, with the opportunity for anyone to ask questions, and access help and support. Details will be posted on our Facebook page in the coming days, and questions can be submitted in advance, and entirely anonymously, but I really would encourage anyone with questions or concerns to get in touch, either through the Q&A or by making a report to the police, or Crimestoppers. 

"Victims of exploitation often aren't what meets the eye, so I would encourage everyone to know the signs to look out for, and make a report if you have any suspicions. You really could be a lifeline for a victim, and help people realise there is a way out and support is very much available.

"Lastly, I would like to add that I hope this sends a clear message to gangs operating across any district in Greater Manchester, and also those who are sending children and young people into our districts. We work closely with forces across the country and continue to share intelligence with one another.

"Our message is clear; while exploitation of children and vulnerable adults is taking place, we will be coming after you."

 

Bev Hughes, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Fire, added: 

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“Criminal exploitation is an abhorrent offence, and these arrests are an example of how we are committed to clamping down on those who manipulate children and vulnerable adults across Greater Manchester.

“Those subjected to these crimes are reminded that help is out there and to access the available victim support on offer. Greater Manchester continues to ensure children do not fall into the hands of these criminal gangs. I urge anybody who spots the signs of exploitation to report it immediately.”

 

You could be the difference for a victim, and we all have a responsibility to protect young and vulnerable members of our communities, so it is important we all know what to look out for.

Signs of criminal exploitation and county lines include:

·         Unexplained gifts and cash

·         Drug paraphernalia

·         More than one phone (often known as a graft phone)

·         Lots of travel tickets such as bus and train tickets

·         New friendship groups

·         Increased missing from home episodes

·         Secretive or withdrawn from family and/or friends

·         Lying- unable to retell a story without confusion or holes in the story

·         Receiving excessive calls or messages from ‘new friends’

·         Getting picked up or dropped off by unknown

If you have any concerns, please visit our website to access the LiveChat or online reporting facility, or by dialling 101. Alternatively, you can make an anonymous report to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

Earlier today (Monday 24 May 2021), Stephen Watson QPM officially took up his new post as Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police.

In the presence of Magistrate Steven Paine, CC Stephen Watson swore his oath and signed the Memorandum of Appointment which officially confirmed his appointment as GMP Chief Constable.

A short time following his attestation, Chief Constable Watson delivered an inaugural speech to representatives from across the force, outlining his vision for the organisation and immediate actions that will come into effect over the coming weeks.

Chief Constable Stephen Watson QPM said:

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"It is my distinct honour to take up the post of Chief Constable for Greater Manchester. It is humbling to be entrusted with the leadership of so many talented, professional and courageous people – people who faithfully serve our communities day in and day out.

"Whatever the travails of GMP at present, we should never forget that we serve alongside many thousands of people who routinely do what others either could not or would not do. The vast majority of our officers and staff do an extraordinary job and they deserve our respect and unstinting support.

"And whilst I suspect that the majority of the public instinctively know this and do support the force, I want all of the people within Greater Manchester to feel proud of their police force and confident in the knowledge that we are in the very vanguard of keeping them and their loved ones safe.

"Our collective mission is to rapidly move GMP into a place where it is objectively recognised as a force that does the basics brilliantly. We are here to take the fight to criminals, to keep people and their families safe from those who would do them harm and to work with others to solve problems in our communities in a way which either prevents harm or offending altogether, or at least reduces the incidents of the same.

"Whilst of course there is work to be done, it is really important for me to stress that Greater Manchester is faithfully served by thousands of dedicated people who are genuinely first class and I look forward to working with them. The next chapter in Greater Manchester Police's history starts with immediate effect."

 

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:

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“Today is the start of a new era for Greater Manchester Police and I am confident that, in Stephen Watson, we have found the right person to lead the change that is needed. He brings with him a wealth of experience to the role, having successfully led improvements at South Yorkshire Police.

“I look forward to working with our new Chief Constable to strengthen the service that GMP provides to our communities. I know that Chief Constable Watson is committed to delivering real change and creating the victim-centred and accountable police force that I have said I want to see.”

 

Bev Hughes, Deputy Mayor for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Fire, said:

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“Chief Constable Stephen Watson’s attestation today signals a new chapter for Greater Manchester Police and acceleration of the positive changes already underway.

“Chief Constable Watson is highly experienced, having worked at a number of the country’s largest police forces. From today and onwards, he will begin to ensure the abilities and skills of our committed officers and staff result in a successful police service, responsive to the citizens of Greater Manchester. It is an exciting time for the force and we’re looking forward to working together to ensure Greater Manchester remains a safe place for people to live, work and visit.”

 

Part of Greater Manchester Police's computer system, the iOPS PoliceWorks records management system, which is where staff and officers can access information about crimes, case files and missing people, is being upgraded on Tuesday 11 May 2021. This will not impact on public safety which is of upmost priority.

The planned upgrade brings a significant number of fixes to bugs and minor defects which have accumulated over time, and are to some degree inevitable with a system of this scale and complexity. This enables staff and officers to carry out their roles more efficiently and keep people safe. 

The upgrade is a complex piece of work, and as such PoliceWorks will be offline for a short time while the work is completed but will be back online later the same day. 

Not all of the iOPS system will be offline, however to ensure disruption to the service is minimised, a business continuity plan will be in place, including paper based recording where appropriate, to ensure officers and staff can still carry out their roles and the safety of the public is not compromised while the upgrade takes place.

GMP's partners and stakeholders, such as local authorities and victim support services, have been given the relevant information ahead of the upgrade so that any impact on partnership working can be understood and addressed in advance.

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes said:

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"The upgrade is essential as it brings improvements to the tools our officers and staff need to effectively deal with crime and continue their valuable work with communities.

"The upgrade is a complex piece of work but our business continuity plan will ensure there is minimal disruption to our service and the safety of the public is not compromised. Staff and officers will still be able to carry out their roles during the outage, and we plan to have everything back online later the same day."

 

An investigation is on-going into the violent disorder surrounding protests at Old Trafford yesterday which saw a number of officers injured

Police were aware of a planned protest at Old Trafford yesterday (Sunday 2 May) and were working closely alongside partners to ensure those that attended were kept safe whilst enabling their right to peaceful protest.

By late afternoon 1,000 protesters had gathered at Old Trafford and 200 separately at the Lowry Hotel in Salford where the United players were staying. Officers continued to monitor the situation and engage with those present, however they were met with hostility as flares were let off and bottles and barriers were thrown at police officers and horses.

Six police officer injuries have been reported so far with one officer receiving a fractured eye socket, requiring medical treatment, and another sustained a wound to his face, following bottles and cans being thrown from the crowd. A third officer was dragged and kicked. The officer who attended hospital has since been discharged.

As the situation increased in hostility, additional officers had to be deployed and officers had to be drawn in from neighbouring forces to assist Greater Manchester officers.

A 28-year old man has been arrested as a consequence of this investigation and all available evidence is being urgently reviewed to identify both the organisers of this protest and those responsible for the officer assaults.

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey, said:

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"The behaviour shown at this protest was absolutely atrocious. Officers were just trying to do their job and facilitate a peaceful protest, however a number of those present became hostile and aggressive towards officers and forced entry to the football grounds, making it very clear that this protest was not peaceful and ruining it for the majority of protesters who had not intended for the protest to become violent.

"Our officers tried to engage with protestors, but were met with violence and aggression which resulted in enforcement action being taken. Enforcement will always be a last resort, but in these circumstances it was deemed necessary in order to maintain safety during a situation that was rising in hostility.

"No officer should have to come to work and face these conditions. This violence was completely unnecessary and resulted in officers being taken from front line policing and neighbouring forces to prevent the disorder getting worse, putting increased pressure and strain on our service and ultimately taking away resources from those who may be in desperate need of our help.

"We are reviewing all obtainable evidence and following all lines of enquiry available to us in order to identify the organisers of this protest as well as those responsible for the officer assaults. If anyone has any information at all in regards to this, or any mobile phone footage from the event itself, please do get in touch with police as soon as possible."

 

Anyone with information can contact police on 0161 856 7573 quoting incident number 955 of 02/05/21.

Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Greater Manchester Police have issued a statement following protests outside of both The Lowry Hotel and Old Trafford, home of Manchester United Football Club. Fans were not happy as the owners moves last week to try and break away from the Champion League to form their own Super League alongside other UK and EU clubs. A move which has now been abandoned due to fan uproar.

GMP say that their Officers were aware of a protest planned to take place in Old Trafford today (Sunday 2 May) and were working closely alongside partners to ensure those that attended were kept safe whilst enabling their right to peaceful protest.

Early this afternoon, groups of protestors began to gather at Old Trafford and separately at The Lowry Hotel, Salford where the United players were staying. By late afternoon around 200 protestors had gathered outside the Lowry and over 1,000 at Old Trafford.

Officers continued to closely monitor the situation, engaging with those present but as the groups grew in size; it became clear that many of those present were not intending to exercise their right to peaceful protest. Flares were let off and bottles thrown at officers.

Protestors outside Old Trafford became especially aggressive and antagonistic towards police before a group of about 100 forced entry to the ground with some United staff having to lock themselves in rooms.

Those in the stadium were evicted by officers but outside on the forecourt hostility grew with bottles and barriers being thrown at officers and horses. Two officers have been injured with one officer being attacked with a bottle and sustaining a significant slash wound to his face, requiring emergency hospital treatment.

With the situation increasing in hostility, additional officers had to be deployed and officers had to be drawn in from neighbouring forces to assist Greater Manchester officers.

Following discussion with The Premier League, Trafford Council and the clubs, a joint decision was made to postpone the match for safety reasons.

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Russ Jackson said: 

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"The behaviour displayed today by those at both Old Trafford and The Lowry Hotel was reckless and dangerous. 

"We understand the passion many supporters have for their team and we fully respect the right for peaceful protest. Plans were in place to ensure this could happen safely, but it soon became clear that many present had no intention of doing so peacefully.

"The actions of those today required us to take officers from front line policing and call in support from neighbouring forces to prevent the disorder getting worse. At different points, bottles and barriers were thrown, officers assaulted and people scaled the stadium structure creating risk for themselves and officers

"We have launched an investigation and we will be working closely alongside partners to ensure we establish the full circumstances surrounding today's events and prosecute those responsible."

 

From today (Monday 26 April 2021), officers from Greater Manchester Police will be joining police forces across the country to support Operation Sceptre.

Operation Sceptre is a national initiative which runs twice per year and aims to; reduce knife crime by targeting those carrying weapons; disrupt the supply of knives; raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime; and provide young people with positive alternatives to crime.

During the week-long operation, GMP's knife arches will be deployed at undisclosed locations targeting those carrying knives along with any other criminality.

In addition, officers will be carrying out weapon sweeps of local parks and open spaces; stop and search activity - where appropriate; visiting habitual knife carriers to explain the dangers and consequences that can come from carrying a knife; and visiting local retailers and provide them with the guidance on the responsible sale of knives.

Officers will also be engaging with local schools and youth provision to educate young people on the impact of knife crime and provide intervention opportunities. Knife crime awareness classes will take place and act as a forum for teachers and pupils to discuss aspects that lead to knife carrying and offer prevent advice and support.  

GMP's knife crime lead, Superintendent Chris Downey, said:

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“Knife crime remains a priority and together with our partners in the Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) we are working hard to make a difference in our communities.

"The Operation Sceptre weeks of action are not the only time of the year we dedicate to tackling knife crime. We are working hard each and every day to disrupt and deter violent crime across Greater Manchester with the ultimate aim of keeping people safe.  

"As well as deploying officers to knife crime hot-spots, it is important we understand and tackle the root cause of violent crime so that we can provide long-term solutions and prevent the same problem from reoccurring. We will arrest and bring people to justice where required, but it's equally as important for us to work with partners to get people the help they need to stop them from becoming involved in violent crime in the first place.

"The police can't tackle knife crime alone; we need the continued support from our communities. We need the people of Greater Manchester's help to share our message and talk openly with family members and friends, to ensure that we prevent anyone from carrying or using a knife."

 

If you have concerns that someone you know or care about is carrying or hiding a knife, help is available via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111, or the Fearless campaign website: https://www.fearless.org/en/give-info.

If you wish to report an incident, please call the Police on 101 or talk to us via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

A former NHS executive and chartered accountant from Manchester has been jailed.

A former NHS executive and chartered accountant from Manchester who siphoned almost £1.4 million from several companies, including those that care for vulnerable adults, has been jailed following an extensive six-year investigation.

Stephen Day (23/05/1967), of Quiech Mill, Blairgowrie, Scotland, but formally of Aberford, Leeds, was handed the 11 years and 5 months sentence at Leeds Crown Court today (Thursday 15 April 2021) after pleading guilty to 12 counts of fraud offences and theft. Day is also subject to a director's disqualification for nine years.

Day, who professed to be a financial turnaround consultant and accountant, would advise businesses on their finances, and worked under more than 20 company names, including Entrusted Group Ltd of The Flint Glass Works, Jersey Street, Manchester.

GMP’s Specialist Fraud Investigation Team became aware of fraudulent activity between August 2011 and September 2014 after reports were passed to the force’s Economic Crime Unit by the victims. Alarm bells rang when several companies raised concerns about money disappearing under Day’s management. This included firms such as Asia House Management Company Ltd, which is a residential management company established for an apartment block in Manchester City Centre, Entrusted Health Ltd, Shaping Health International Ltd, Avida Care Limited, which provides home visits to vulnerable adults, and The Royal Bank of Scotland.

While in a position of trust and power within these companies, Day would take over financial control of their bank accounts, and large sums of money would go missing. It was in fact being paid into Day's own company accounts instead of suppliers, and Day used false narratives to explain how they got there, including using fake financial accounts to provide to directors at annual general meetings. £1,382,244 million was taken in total.  

Whilst carrying out these enquiries officers learned that the NHS Counter Fraud Authority had uncovered that Day had also become a financial director for numerous Trusts at the same time, and failed to disclose it to his employers. This included Merseyside Commissioning Support Unit and South East Staffordshire and Seisdon Peninsula CCG, both of whom were paying him a full-time salary. The NHSCFA investigated, and co-ordinated with Greater Manchester Police and the CPS, to bring these charges forward to accurately represent his full range of offending.

Not only did Day target businesses, but also those he befriended in order to take advantage of. Despite being in a relationship with two men already, Day struck up a romantic connection with a woman claiming he was a widower, and over the course of several months in 2014 while under police investigation, convinced her under false pretences to pay for meals and transfer him money to the total of around £5,000.

It’s not clear exactly where Day spent his ill-gotten gains, but detectives do know he purchased several properties in Scotland, took a holiday in Dubai and he was also in the middle of refurbishing an 45 acre estate in Scotland which had its own salmon fishing area on the River Annan. It's believed he's has full refurbished another property in South Africa too, in order to let out as a holiday rental.

Detective Sergeant Stuart Donohue, who has led on the investigation since the beginning, said:

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“This has been the most painstaking investigation of my career to date.

“Around 160 evidence boxes, recovered from his estate and office, which are full to the brim with folders have been scrupulously examined by the team. And this doesn’t include all the interview transcripts, digital files and endless hours spent tracing his movements.

“Day was a career-criminal. He built his life on cheating and stealing. He was very meticulous in what he did and would often move money to and from so many accounts that it was difficult to distinguish the route it had taken. He did this to try and trip us up and confuse us, but we never doubted that we would uncover the extent of his deceit and greed.

“Every step of the way he has lied and tried to find any way to avoid going to prison. He has created numerous deliberate delays to the prosecution, which the Police and CPS have tirelessly dealt with, and has been unwilling to fully accept his actions. But, as with all crimes, it has caught up with him today.

“Although the investigation has now closed, our work does not stop here and we will now look at a Proceeds of Crime Hearing to try and recoup some of the funds he stole to recompense his numerous victims. We're also seeking a serious crime prevention order, to prevent further offending once he's served his time.

"While the case has been six years for some of the agencies investigating, I would like to thank the victims in this case for their unwavering patience during what has been such a devastating crime on their businesses, and their personal futures made worse by the fact that Day was considered a friend to some, and not just a colleague."

 

Richard Rippin, Head of Operations of the NHSCFA, said:

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“Stephen Day carried out a calculated fraud against the NHS. Any money lost to fraud effects the amount of resources the NHS has available for front line care. The money stolen by Day would have been enough to fund the annual salaries of three nurses. We are pleased that through joint working with Greater Manchester Police we were able to show the court the full extent of his offending. The NHSCFA believe that multi-agency working such as this is the best way to stamp out fraud against the public sector. If you suspect NHS fraud, please report it to us either through our online reporting form or by calling our fraud and corruption reporting line.”

It's time for Salford to head out and get haircuts, hit the gym and enjoy a swift pint in the pubs today as further lockdown restrictions have been eased.

The second step along the roadmap to lockdown is effective from today (Monday 12 April) and sees further easing of restrictions. 

It seems like an eternity, especially for Greater Manchester, where pubs and non-essential shops have been closed since Monday 12 October 2020.

 The changes include:

·        All non-essential shops, attractions, gyms and retail to open.

·        Domestic overnight stays (household) and self-contained accommodation can open

·        Wakes, weddings and receptions can now include up to 15 people

·        Working from home where possible is still encouraged

·        Pubs can open outdoors (table service only)

Masks will still be a requirement in shops and social distancing is still necessary. 

The number of people you can meet up with outside hasn't changed and the regulations still state that you can continue to meet outdoors in groups of up to six or from a maximum of two other households, but you still cannot mix with other households indoors.

Each step along the roadmap is subject to a number of factors being met in order for the easing's to take place, including keeping the infection rates below a level that could put pressure on the NHS. This has been achieved by everyone doing their bit to stop the spread of the virus and making this next step possible.

Superintendent Chris Hill said:

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"This is a huge step forward for everyone and has been a long-time coming. It will be really rewarding to finally get back to some semblance of normality after spending so long in lockdown. It has been a frustrating time for everyone but we are now at a point where we can finally start to socialise more and start to enjoy time with our loved ones again.

"However, I must remind people that there are still certain regulations in place so please enjoy yourself in a safe way that limits the spread of the virus which is still out there. The vaccine rollout has been hugely successful but there are still many people who haven't been offered it yet and could still suffer detrimentally if they contract the virus. Please think of others as well as your own safety.

"I hope everyone enjoys the benefits after working so hard to limit the spread of the virus. If we continue to do our bit in following the regulations it won't be long before we're completely out of lockdown."

 

A man has been charged following a collision on Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester.

Thomas Anthony Joseph Keogh (14/02/1992) of no fixed address has been charged with:

- Threatening a person with a bladed article in a public place.

- Possessing a bladed article in a public place.

- Aggravated vehicle taking.

He has been remanded to appear before Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court today, Monday April 2021.

At around 5.45pm on Saturday 3 April a female pedestrian in her 30s was injured after a vehicle being pursued by officers was involved in a collision with a wall on Cheetham Hill Road.

Greater Manchester Police are appealing to the public to use the force's full range of reporting methods available to report non-emergency crime over the coming weekend, following a large increase in demands for service.

Since Monday, the force has seen a large increase in demand and has put plans in place for extra officers to be available over this weekend and the week ahead.

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes said:

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"Officers and staff continue to play a vital and challenging role in the effort to prevent the spread of coronavirus, while still dealing with a high volume of non-virus related incidents including serious and complex cases.

"There has been a significant increase in calls received into our control room in the last few days, with the majority of those being categorised as high priority. To help cope with this influx of incidents, we have taken the decision to re-distribute officers from other units to front line policing, to cope with the extra demand that we are experiencing at this time.

"I would ask the public that if you need to report a non-urgent crime, then please consider using our online methods of reporting. These reports are sent straight to our control room and will help reduce the 101 call waiting time."

"As always, the force’s main priority is to keep our local communities safe and we continue to deliver a high standard of policing to Greater Manchester."

 

If you need to report a non-urgent crime, please use the link below to be directed to our online reporting form.

https://www.gmp.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Always call 999 in an emergency.

In what has been hailed as a historic move, Greater Manchester Metro Mayor, Andy Burnham, has given the go ahead for control over the regions bus networks to become franchised.

The landmark move came after nine council leaders gave their recommendations to take control and move towards creating a London styled regulatory system, the first of it's kind outside of the capital.

The buses will continue to be operated by private companies but more control over 'simpler' fares and routes will fall under the remit of Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), allowing for a standardised integrated ticketing system across the whole bus network, similar to what is seen in the Capital.

It also helps towards integrating the buses with the rest of the regions public transport network, as well as price capping to keep costs low for passengers.

Burnham hailed the move as the biggest change to the bus network since the 1980's when the system was unregulated.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Ashton Interchange earlier this afternoon, the Mayor said:

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“Public transport is essential for any successful city-region, and our buses are the backbone of Greater Manchester’s transport network. As Greater Manchester recovers from the pandemic and grows in the future, we must develop our public transport network, alongside walking and cycling, to support the increasing number of journeys we will all be making.

“In Greater Manchester, we’ve always done things differently and been trailblazers especially in the field of transport; we had the first passenger railway; the first ‘bus’ route with a horse-drawn carriage and now I’ve decided that we will be the first outside London to run our buses differently – under local control, so that decisions are made at a local level for the benefit of our passengers.

"It will mean simpler fares and ticketing. You will be able to use your tickets on all Greater Manchester buses and hop on and hop off. You will know how much your tickets will cost.

"Timetables will be joined up and you will be able to change between buses and trams making your journey seamless."

 

Regulation will mean that all buses will from 2023 be a standardised colour and customers will have a better idea of how much their journeys would cost.

Funding for the £135m project will come from one off local authority contributions, devolution deal cash as well as monies from the current and future mayoral precept.

Meanwhile several companies have submitted separate court applications for a judicial review after claiming a lack of consultation, with the 'One Bus' representative body stating that the process was being rushed.

The new system is set to be introduced in three phases starting in January 2023,  with phase two set for January 2024 and the final phase three to begin in January 2025.

Last week step one of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions took place on Monday 8 March, which included the reopening of schools and two people from different households being able to meet outdoors. This slight change in the restrictions does not mean we are out of lockdown and all other Government led regulations still apply, including meeting people in large groups. 

Over the weekend GMP has issued 135 fixed penalty notices with many being issued to people meeting up indoors or meeting in groups of 15 or more people. Many calls are made in to the police from the public with reports of breaches and we will respond to them due to the ongoing lockdown rules and to support the NHS in their fight against this virus.

We have also had to issue a number of fines to people who have travelled to Manchester Airport to wave a friend or relative off. Under the current regulations this is not allowed as having more people in the terminal is risking the health of others. Superintendent Chris Downey said:

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"I was working this weekend and covering all COVID related incidents. It was really disappointing to see the number of people breaching the regulations even though we are still in a national lockdown.

"We absolutely understand the frustrations felt, many people are now having a second birthday in lockdown, many have had to wait a year for wedding celebrations and more, but we are all so close to being able to celebrate with friends and loved ones without worry of a financial penalty, which can often be £800 or more. We don't want to have to give anyone a fixed penalty notice, especially in the current situation, however when we are faced with a clear breach of the rules, we unfortunately have to take enforcement action in an effort to protect people.

"There was some slight easing to restrictions last week, however the date for the next step is subject to change based on the level of infection rates. If the regulations are not adhered to this could increase the spread of COVID, meaning the date is pushed back for everyone. We all want to get out of lockdown, but we need to work together to make sure we continue to do our bit."

 

Number of FPNs given

Indoor gathering of two or more people - 90

Public of more than two people - 14

Airport - 3

House party of over 15 people - 23

Failure to self-isolate after international travel - 2

Out of place of home without a valid reason - 3

Cash recovered from a rooftop and two arrested as officers conduct early morning raids across Greater Manchester.

At around 6am this morning (Thursday 11 March 2021) officers from GMP’s City of Manchester Challenger Team, Xcalibre Task Force and the Tactical Aid Unit executed drug warrants at three properties in Heywood, Hollins and Blackley.

During the warrants two men, aged 29 and 37, were arrested on suspicion of offences including conspiracy to supply drugs, money laundering and firearms offences. They remain in custody for questioning.

Following a search of a property in Blackley, officers soon discovered a significant amount of cash had been stashed in bags and thrown onto the roof from the bathroom window in a last-ditch attempt to hide it from officers.

Other items seized from the properties included a car and a mobiles phones.

The warrants were conducted as part of GMP’s Operation Foam – a large scale investigation dedicated to identifying and dismantling the criminal use of encrypted communication services.

Operation Foam is GMP’s strand of the NCA led Operation Venetic. The huge scale operation has spanned nearly every law enforcement agency across the United Kingdom.

Under Operation Venetic, law enforcement agencies across the UK have joined together and shared expertise in order to breakthrough a highly sophisticated and encrypted global communication service, which was being used by organised crime groups.

Detective Inspector Ian McNabb of GMP’s City of Manchester Division, said:

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“Today’s result follows months of meticulous investigative work and is yet another successful step forward in our continued effort in disrupting this type of activity across Greater Manchester.

“Although we currently have two in custody for questioning, our investigation will continue and we would appeal to anyone who believes they hold information on suspicious activity – whatever that may be – to get in touch with police.”

 

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 0324. Alternatively reports can be made anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police attended what they say was a small demonstration regarding public sector health pay at around 12noon today, Sunday 7 March 2021 in Manchester City Centre.

A crowd of around 40 people had gathered in contravention of current lockdown legislation, in particular legislation concerning protests.

GMP officers say that they sought to engage early with the organisers and those gathering to highlight the unlawfulness of their activity, using the first of the four Es approach - engaging, explaining and encouraging compliance with legislation.

Most people thereafter dispersed.

One woman aged 65 was arrested for failing to provide details having refused the opportunity to leave when asked.

She later provided details and was de-arrested and given a £200 Fixed Penalty Notice.

The organiser of the protest, a woman aged 61, has been issued a £10,000 Fixed Penalty Notice.

Superintendent Caroline Hemingway said:

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"With the positive step of schools reopening tomorrow, it is vital that people continue to follow Government legislation on social distancing and avoid gathering illegally in large numbers.

"Regardless of one's sympathies for a protest's cause, we would ask the public to maintain social distancing and follow legislation to prevent a rise in infections and provide the best possible chance of a further easing of restrictions in the weeks to come.

"We sought to engage with and peaceably disperse those attending this afternoon's protest, explaining that the gathering was in contravention of Government lockdown rules.

"Unfortunately officers were met with a degree of non-compliance and it was therefore necessary to enforce issue FPNs."

 

A fund has been set up for donations towards paying the fine at this link: Fundraiser by Lauren French : Pay Manchester NHS protest organisers £10k fine (gofundme.com)

The family of a 35-year-old woman, who sustained significant injuries as a result of a collision in Old Trafford, have made an appeal to the public for information.
 

Shortly after 10.10pm on Friday 29 January 2021, police were called to reports of a collision between a grey Smart ForFour and a cyclist on Chester Road at the junction with Sydney Street.
 

Emergency services attended and the cyclist - the 35-year-old woman - was taken to hospital with serious head injuries where she remains in a critical condition.
 

The driver of the car remained at the scene to speak with officers and no arrests have been made.

Her family have made a plea for information that may assist with the investigation:

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"We are appealing for any witnesses who have not yet made contact with the police to come forward to help us understand how, an experienced and safety conscious cyclist on her regular commute home from work; could end up fighting for her life with a severe brain injury.
 

"She is the most fun and life affirming person to be around. Everyone who knows her loves her. Our focus now is on supporting her in her rehabilitation from her catastrophic, life changing injuries. If you have any information that can help the police in their inquiries, please, please come forward to help piece together the facts."

 

Police Sergeant Matt Waggett, of GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

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"This incident has resulted in a young lady sustaining significant injuries as a result of being struck by a vehicle whilst cycling. 
 

“Our investigation into this collision is progressing and we continue to piece together the exact circumstances leading up to the collision in order to fully understand what occurred that evening.
 

"I echo the plea made by her family, and ask anybody who saw this incident occur, or has any information not already brought to our attention, to get in touch as soon as possible."

 

Anyone with information should call GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting incident number 3006 of 29/01/2021, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Greater Manchester Police has appointed two additional Chief Superintendents as part of a local policing restructure

Superintendents Andy Sidebotham and Rachael Harrison were appointed on Friday 26 February 2021 following an interview process and started in their new post the following Monday (1 March 2021).

Temporary Chief Superintendent Sidebotham, who most recently served as GMP's Silver Commander for the force's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, will take responsibility for GMP's South Command Area (Stockport and Trafford). T/Chief Superintendent Harrison will assume responsibility for the East Command Area (Oldham and Tameside) having most recently served as superintendent for GMP's Salford District.

The appointments come following a restructure of GMP's Local Policing Model that sees the force move from four command areas to six. This reduces the span of command of the chief superintendents in local policing, allowing them to work more effectively with our partners and deliver more effective victim-centred policing.

The remaining districts will be geographically set up as follows:

City of Manchester will remain the same Command Area and continue to be overseen by Chief Superintendent Paul Savill.

Salford District will now become its own respective Command Area and continue to be overseen by Chief Superintendent Shaun Donnellan.

North Command Area will consist of GMP's Bury and Rochdale Districts, and be overseen by Chief Superintendent Chris Allsop.

West Command Area will consist of GMP's Bolton and Wigan Districts, and be overseen by Chief Superintendent Stuart Ellison.

Acting Chief Constable Ian Pilling said:

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"I'm delighted to announce that we have appointed two additional chief superintendents as part of a significant local policing restructure.

"Andy and Rachael bring with them a wealth of experience that I have no doubt will be of great benefit to everyone who lives and works in their respective command areas.

"We have moved quickly to implement this local policing restructure; however this was a positive change that we felt we needed to make in the best interests of the public that we serve. By injecting more leadership at a local level, our chief superintendents can invest more time in executive partnership work which means that the police are playing more of an active role in supporting their communities and driving positive changes that will benefit the public.

"This will in turn act as a really strong foundation for us to deliver more effective victim-centred policing, which is ultimately our main objective for the restructure."

 

Greater Manchester’s Deputy Mayor for Policing, Crime and Criminal Justice, Bev Hughes, said:

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“This is very good news for local communities and will provide added reassurance to residents across our city-region.

“The appointment of two additional chief superintendents is just one of the many measures underway to strengthen neighbourhood policing in Greater Manchester. The new policing restructure will enable an improved service, as well as ensure victims of crime are receiving the support they need and deserve.”

 

Three men charged following warrants tackling the production of drugs across Greater Manchester.

Aaron Lavis (13/04/1998) and Scott Lavis (15/08/1991), both of Mottram Road, Stalybridge, have been charged with being concerned in the supply of a Class B drug, possession with intent to supply a Class B drug and conspiracy to supply Class B drug.

Jason Joyce (27/06/1995) of Burton Walk, Salford, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of a Class B drug and conspiracy to supply a Class B drug.

The trio appeared before Manchester Magistrates' Court on Tuesday 2 March 2021 and have been remanded to appear before Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday 30 March 2021.

These charges follow warrants that were carried out in July 2020, at two addresses where a large quantity of Class B drugs were seized.

There were reports of a glowing orange object streaking through the upper atmosphere above the Pennines between Oldham, and Leeds, earlier this evening.

The source is likely to be a meteor – space debris left over from the formation of the solar system which disintegrates as it enters the Earth's atmosphere.

The UK Meteor Network which monitors the skies above the country for celestial visitors, reported that they had received 60 reports of the object this evening at around 9:45pm (28th Feb).

A dull sonic boom which accompanied the object was also heard by many, the boom is generated as the space rock is torn apart by the interaction with the earths thick atmosphere which makes it heat up to the point of disintegration.

The spectacle was seen across much of the North or England and some were lucky spectators were fortunate enough to have captured it on camera.

John Maher was travelling home in his car when the fireball blazed across the sky in front of him. He managed to capture it on his cars dashcam, before posting it on to Twitter.

Sam Clegg witnessed it in Leeds also managed to capture it on his CCTV camera.

@Nikkinoop on Twitter managed to capture the extra terrestrial visitor on her Ring door camera.

Photo: Brad Lee Caslin

It didn't happen in Salford but who doesn't love a good old fashioned police dog story?

GMP's dog unit put in a sterling performance overnight as eight arrests were made with their support across Greater Manchester, including the arrest of a man following a series of catalytic converter thefts in south Manchester.

Police were called to four reports of stolen catalytic converters in the Didsbury of Manchester in the early hours of Thursday 25 February 2021 between 12.57am and 1.04am.

Officers spotted a suspicious vehicle matching the descriptions given by members of the public a short time later and began to pursue the car on School Lane.

Dash cam footage shows items being thrown at the police car during the pursuit, and three men eventually abandoned the car and attempted to run away from police.

One man was chased to the ground by Police Dog Ted and officers recovered three of the stolen converters as part of their initial enquiries which were aimed at the police vehicle during the pursuit.

A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, criminal damage and theft of catalytic converters. He remains in custody for questioning.

Three further arrests were made in Bolton earlier in the evening by officers responding to reports of an attempted theft of Ford Transit van on Inveraray Avenue at around 10.40pm.

With support from the police helicopter, officers pursued a black Audi believed to be involved in the incident during which the car rammed the police vehicle, before all three men in the got out and fled on foot.

One man was caught by Police Dog Jax, and two men were detained a short time later by officers.  All have been taken to custody on suspicion of burglary.

During proactive stop searches on the Metrolink between Old Trafford and Chorlton, police dog Hugo helped sniff out four men possessing drugs during the evening, during which a knife was also recovered.

Four men - aged between 22 and 35 - were arrested on suspicion of drug offences.