Brief - Summer 2013

Regulars Time to recognise our great work IF we believed the headlines and the many articles in the national newspapers, then policing is in a crisis. This is absolutely not the case. This edition of Brief showcases the real face of policing and the great work that is being done. Every day we make a difference to people’s lives and receive a tremendous amount of support.

It is great to see the hard work and dedication of officers and staff being recognised both in the Chief Constable’s Excellence Awards and other places. Inspector Damian O’Reilly was awarded an MBE and two projects Now’t 2 Do in Wigan

and Tameside R.A.S.H received the Queen’s voluntary medal and award respectively.

But it doesn’t have to be through formal recognition as the work of Rochdale North has shown. They have had huge success in connecting with their local community through social networking site Facebook which has brought some big operational benefits.

The successes we have had in tackling crime and antisocial behaviour have only been possible with the trust and support of the public. If they have confidence in their local police they will feel able to

as part of its core business and not have to rely on mutual aid from other forces.

My views on the cuts to policing are on public record – these cuts are reckless and damaging the safety of our communities.

Pictured: PCC Tony Lloyd with officers during a Resources here have been walkabout in Clayton cut and we face our own policing challenges. But I am bound to thank our officers who have been in Northern Ireland to CHANCELLOR George uphold the rule of law and keep Osborne’s spending cuts means people safe. I’m also very glad that GMP faces its toughest financial none of our officers have been challenges in years, so it’s a injured. reminder of what value for money The police do really good work to policing is as a public service. Those keep our communities safe and I’d who put themselves on the frontline like to take this opportunity to thank to serve the public and keep us safe officers and staff for the positive deserve admiration and respect. work you do each day. I attended The recent violence faced by Drummer Lee Rigby’s funeral, which police in Northern Ireland involved a high police presence that emphasises the stark reality of the went relatively unnoticed. It’s times dangers officers face on a daily like this when the police should be basis. More than 600 officers from praised so thanks to all of you who UK forces have been drafted in to made the day a safe one, allowing provide support to the PSNI, Lee’s family and well-wishers to pay including some of our own. I fully their respects. understand the concerns of the But with the day to day GMP’s Federation on providing challenges faced by GMP, mutual aid. PSNI should be staffed sometimes things do go wrong. That up to cope with the marching season

Learning lessons

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come to us with problems and help us reach solutions. We cannot be complacent and take this support for granted. It is something we have to continue to build on to ensure we can continue to make the difference to people in Greater Manchester.

Sir Peter Fahy, Chief Constable doesn’t make it acceptable and it’s important we take steps to put things right.

Earlier this month saw the conclusion of the HSE case following the death of PC Ian Terry - an avoidable tragedy that should never have happened. An investigatory process that took five long years meant Ian’s loved ones have had to wait to get to this point. This is a disgrace and only amplifies their pain.

‘Learning lessons’ is a term banded about a lot but it’s important that we do learn from this tragedy and I have asked for and been given assurance that this could never happen again.

I rely on people to let me know when things aren’t being done right and key to this is giving you the confidence to come forward. Whistle -blowing isn’t something that should be frowned upon, nor should anyone feel disloyal or be afraid of reprisals by speaking out.

As Police and Crime Commissioner I will protect whistleblowers in GMP. If you do have any concerns please report them by calling my confidential free hotline on 0800 694 0121.

Tony Lloyd, PCC

Regulars

Editorial̶All about Brief

News 5

POCA nets £7m

6

Claireʼs law changing lives

7

Rochdale North Facebook from zero to hero

Features 16-17 Driven to succeed - the Serious Collision Investigation Unit 18-19 Know your neighbourhood̶East Manchester

From left to right: Kevin Hoy , Melissa Mead, Catherine Barlow, Krystyna Rudzki and Patricia Jones

Over the years there have a number of changes to the overall look of Brief but do you know how the magazine is pulled together?

The editorial team (pictured) is responsible for setting the news agenda, creating each edition and publishing on the Intranet and GMP website.

At the start of each issue the editorial team (members of the Corporate Communications Branch) get together to discuss the stories that have been submitted either by email, word of mouth, by phone or even as a result of Twitter. These days there are fewer ‘human interest’ stories submitted by police officers and police staff and the team know that this is something they need to work on.

The saying “A picture is worth a thousand words” is often talked about in our office and we know that many of you will browse Brief to find someone you know.

If you’ve got an idea or a story then please give one of us a call or email the team at brief@gmp.police.uk

Guest contributors

Sarah Wilcox-Standring Sarah was Awards Coordinator for four years, arranging Commendations, Excellence Awards and long service ceremonies. Last month, she left to return to Australia and wishes everyone all the best. Good luck Sarah!

Rachel Atherton Rachel is a Senior Public Relations officer who has worked in the Corporate Communications Branch for seven years. She has worked on North Manchester and Bury Divisions and at FHQ dealing with forcewide PR.

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A Press Officerʼs view of the G8

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Training to save lives

22-23 Preventing elderly abuse 24

My other job as a foster carer

27

GMP Cadets join the team

28-29 Officers and staff get fighting fit 31

Senior Womenʼs fashion show

GMP Community 34

910 mile charity cycle

35

PCSOs collect food for charity

Sports & Social 38

Hyde cricket event a hit with youngsters

Be published in Brief Editoral team: Catherine Barlow, Kevin Hoy, Krystyna Rudzki, Melissa Mead and Patricia Jones Photographers: Chris Oldham and Bill Morris 0161 856 2777 | Picture Desk: Lisa Marks 0161 856 2279 Designed and produced by: Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, Central Park, M40 5BP Contact numbers: 0161 856 856 5939 / 2238 / 5938 Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk

Marie Parkinson Marie has been the professional lead on Health, Safety and Wellbeing for more than 2 0 years and is based at Sedgley Park. She can safely say that throughout her career no two days have ever

Brief online: www.gmp.police.uk/Brief

Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by

Friday 30 August Brief Summer 2013 Edition 3

News

Cracking down on drugs and bringing people to justice

Dean Rix

Arslan Aftab

William Seaborn

PCs exercise a drugs raid in Cheetham Hill

ONE of the Force’s most successful ever drugs crackdowns has amassed a total of 144 years prison time for those brought to justice.

On the day it was confirmed that crime in Greater Manchester is down, the total number of people sentenced as part of Operation Cairo— set up to tackle drug dealing in Cheetham Hill—reached 45.

On Thursday 18 July, at Manchester Crown Court:  Arslan Aftab (born 29/10/89) of Hillwood Avenue, pleaded guilty to six counts of supplying class A drugs and was sentenced to three years in prison.  William Seaborn (born 17/12/74) of Gartland Walk, Crumpsall pleaded guilty to 10 counts of supplying class A drugs and was sentenced to three years in prison.

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 Dean Rix (born 31/7/91) of Swanton Walk, Cheetham Hill, pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of class A drugs and was sentenced to five years, seven months.

Operation Cairo was launched in the summer of 2012, after police in North Manchester received a number of complaints of on-street drug dealing.

The operation culminated in dawn raids in October 2012 and April 2013, with almost 60 homes being searched.

Operation Cairo also led to the recovery of a gun, for which Marcel Madden was later sentenced.

Ch Insp Marcus Noden said: "Drugs make people’s lives a misery and reduce the quality of everyday life for local residents. So when the people of Cheetham Hill came and told us about an issue

with drug dealing in their area, we needed to respond.

"Drug dealing appeared to be on the increase in Cheetham Hill and Crumpsall, to the extent that those involved appeared not to care that they were doing this in broad daylight.

"We therefore carried out a detailed operation, working closely with the community to tackle the problem.

"It is initiatives like Operation Cairo that have helped crime go down, as illustrated in the latest statistics; the supply of drugs often leads to robberies and burglaries so addicts can fund their habits; a problem which was occurring in Cheetham Hill.

“We have to strike a balance between investigating crimes after they have happened and being proactive against that group of criminals who commit most crime.

“In Operation Cairo, we did both, making Cheetham Hill and Crumpsall better places in which to live.”

News Within the last financial year, £1,159,503 has been recovered as part of the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS), the process used to allocate proceeds gained from POCA. John Dilworth, Head of the CPS North West Complex Casework Unit said: “The value of POCA confiscation orders obtained in the last twelve months is testament to the sheer determination of the CPS to bring criminals who have amassed high levels ACC Steve Heywood (left) with John Dilworth, Head of the CPS North West Complex Casework Unit of personal wealth from their crimes before the courts to strip them of their ill-gotten assets.

“The CPS and Greater Manchester Police are committed to making sure that criminals do not keep hold of the proceeds of their legislation we have been able to NEARLY £7million worth of crimes and we will continue to make relentlessly pursue those making a assets has been stripped from full use of the POCA legislation to living out of being a criminal and see criminals under the Proceeds of ensure that criminals do not benefit that they are made to pay for their Crime Act by officers and staff financially from their illegal activity.” crimes. across GMP. This year, the Lionheart “Our teams have carried out A house valued at approximately Challenge benefited from criminal financial investigations to target the £500,000, Rolex, Breitling, Omega gains. fraudsters, drug dealers and those and Tag watches as well as high The Force spent £100,000 of involved in organised criminality and powered vehicles such as Audis, offenders’ money so that thousands have been able to take away their Bentley, BMWs, a Mercedes Benz of schoolchildren from 30 schools prized possessions. and a Lamborghini Gallardo were across Greater Manchester could just some of the items seized or “It means that we haven’t had to break down the barriers between restrained from criminals over the stop once a person is locked up, in them and police. past year. fact for our team this is just a Officers and staff across the starting point.

Force carried out 289 POCA The high life that confiscation orders and 305 cash communities will seizures making the total recovery have seen of criminal assets as £6,917,686. criminals enjoy Between April 2012 and April is unravelled as 2013, the Force successfully offenders are obtained court forfeiture orders to stripped of their the value of £2,112,545 in cash and much loved obtained confiscation orders to the assets, cash, value of £4,805,142 from criminals. possessions and ACC Steve Heywood with just some of the Assistant Chief Constable Steve assets obtained pride.”

Heywood, said: “By using the POCA Asst Ch Cons Steve Hayward with some of the seized assets

POCA nets nearly £7 million from criminals across GMP area

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News

From zero to Facebook hero

Skittles the puppy, who was stolen during a burglary in the Whitworth area, was re‐ united with 8‐year‐old Izzy Duffy thanks to Rochdale North’s Facebook appeal

OFFENDERS in Rochdale North have found there is nowhere to hide from police thanks to Facebook.

The local Facebook page, which is run by Inspector Umer Khan along with his officers and staff, has been tracking down wanted criminals, lost property and has even reunited a stolen puppy with its owner.

It has been quite a turnaround for a page that was identified as one of the worst-performing in the force in March 2013.

The force quarterly social media report, which evaluates the performance of all GMP’s social media accounts, found that the Rochdale North Facebook page was not updated frequently enough and was failing to engage with the local community.

Unhappy that his team was missing a good opportunity on social media, Inspector Khan set himself a 6 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

challenge to make his account relevant to his community.

He wanted to make sure that the page was updated regularly with content that mattered to the local community, as well as to appeal directly to followers for information about crime relating to them.

The team were immediately able to reap the rewards of this approach when members of the public contacted them through Facebook with details of wanted offenders.

As a direct result of this information the Rochdale North team were able to make a number of arrests including one man who famously posted “Catch me if you can” on the Facebook page.

Facebook users have also been providing information about cannabis farms, drug dealing and anti-social behaviour, and have helped unite a stolen puppy with his eight-year-old

owner.

Inspector Khan said, “Facebook is a wide-reaching tool that is an excellent way to get messages out to the community. For us in Rochdale North it has also proved to be an invaluable tool in assisting with investigations.

“It can be time intensive to manage a Facebook page, as they must be monitored closely, but it has quickly become an integral part of my team’s daily work.”

Since March the number of followers to the Rochdale North page has increased from 127 likes to 3,855 in August 2013.

You can see the page by visiting www.facebook.com/ GMPRochdaleNorth or find your team’s social media accounts at www.gmp.police.uk/socialmedia If you have questions about how GMP uses social media, contact Corporate Communications.

News

Clareʼs Law already changing lives DOZENS of women have been about whether to stay with given life changing information somebody or not. following the introduction of the “It may be that somebody is in a Domestic Violence Disclosure relationship but isn’t happy about Scheme (DVDS), better known as some of the behaviour of their Clare’s Law. partner.

GMP launched the Clare’s Law “If warning bells are ringing, then pilot in September last year these are the types of people we alongside Gwent, Nottingham and want to hear from.”

Wilshire Police Forces.

In the first nine months of “If ‘Clare’s Law’ stops even just the pilot, GMP has received 65 ‘right to ask’ (from one woman facing the same fate individuals, or third parties) than that is a lasting legacy” and 25 ‘right to know’ (from partner agencies) applications.

Tony Lloyd, Police and Crime Fifty two disclosures have been Commissioner for Greater made and 31 were non-disclosed Manchester, said: “Clare’s Law is either because the partner did not one of a number of measures being have a record of violent offences or used to tackle domestic violence – a there was no information that posed heinous crime which we hear the a risk to the partner. tragic consequences of time and time again.

Det Supt Phil Owen from the Public Protection Division said: “It has already seen some good “Sadly we know only too well the results but we need to continue devastating consequences that raising awareness of the scheme domestic abuse has and we and work together to rid society of welcome any initiative that helps to this terrible crime which has untold, protect victims of domestic abuse long-lasting effects on victims and, and prevent further crime. importantly, long-lasting effects on “The Domestic Violence their children.

Disclosure Scheme is a preventative “Tragically, it’s too late for Clare, measure and enables potential but if ‘Clare’s Law’ stops even just victims to take control of their life one woman facing the same fate and make an informed decision than that is a lasting legacy which

hopefully brings some comfort to her family.”

Hazel Blears, the Labour MP for Salford and Eccles, who joined Clare Wood's father Michael Brown in campaigning for the disclosure scheme, said: "Two women are killed every week by a current or former partner, and tragically, my constituent Clare Wood was one of them.

"Had she known about her partner's violent past she would have been empowered to end the relationship at an early stage and that is why I campaigned for Clare's Law. "I'm told that women in Salford who have used the scheme have been glad they did - and I am pleased to see more is being done to publicise it.

"If that results in more women knowing they can use Clare's Law to reduce the risk of becoming longterm victims of domestic abuse then it will have been well worthwhile."

A leaflet about Clare’s Law is available to download from the GMP website

Crime falls again in Greater Manchester THE Chief Constable has praised officers and staff for their ‘dedication and commitment’ as figures released by the Home Office show crime has fallen again in Greater Manchester.

Between April 2012 and March 2013 there were 22,592 fewer victims of crime across the Force compared to the previous year.

In response to the Home Office Figures Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy said: “This has been another challenging year for the Force and thanks to the dedication and commitment of our officers and staff, as well as support from the public, crime has fallen across Greater Manchester.“

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News Road policing changes

The number of Road Policing Units (RPUs) in GMP has reduced from three to two.

The RPU at Leigh is now closed and officers from here have relocated to Traffic Network sections in Eccles and Chadderton. The remaining units will be known as RPU West (Eccles) and RPU East (Chadderton). Both units will continue to provide 24 hour roads policing to the towns and motorways of Greater Manchester.

Officers based at Eccles will cover Trafford, Salford, Bury, Bolton and Wigan whilst those based at Chadderton will cover Rochdale, Oldham, Tameside, Stockport and North and South Manchester.

Explosive reaction POLICE were on hand to deliver a first class service when a Thomas Cook aircraft engine exploded on the runway.

Fortunately none of the 300 passengers were harmed. Police officers, the fire service and engineers were all commended for their extremely quick reaction to the explosion, at the scene only minutes after the engine exploded.

Insp Maxine Saboor was on duty when the explosion happened. She said: “When the explosion went off, it could clearly be heard across the Airfield. We responded to the incident as a full emergency procedure and deployed officers to specific points around the aircraft to await further instruction.

“In these types of situations time is of the essence and the real test is how quickly we react and work together to provide the support necessary. I’m pleased to say that our team was there immediately, offering assurance of our presence to the emergency services teams, airport staff

Off duty hero

By Sgt Steve Croft Sandra Young, who came to the driver’s rescue AT the end of a busy working day, Sandra Young who works in OCB and Business Services was looking forward to her evening as she drove home along the busy M60.

Suddenly the car immediately in front veered across the path of traffic in the next lane, across the hard shoulder and disappeared down an embankment.

Without a moment’s thought she pulled onto the hard shoulder and set off scrambling down the embankment. The car had come to rest against a tree preventing it from plummeting down the steep slope into the lake below.

Sandra and three other members of the public found the driver’s door jammed and seeing smoke coming from under the bonnet, quickly set to work to release the unconscious driver.

Sandra recalls: “I could see he was moving but he was obviously not quite with it. We had to make the decision to get him out because we could see smoke and thought there might be a fire.

“Between us we got him through the passenger door and made our way back up the embankment through thick brambles that I was flattening as they were thigh high and really difficult to get through.”

PC Andrew Robinson from the Road Policing Unit attended the scene. He said: “By the time I got there Sandra had taken the details of the witnesses including phone numbers and vehicle details – the bits that people normally forget.

“The man we clearly very poorly and was lucky that Sandra and others stopped to help, a job well done.”

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News

Expanding GMP’s social reach TWEETERS and Facebookers will soon have a new way of updating their followers with the introduction of software that will allow multiple accounts to be updated at once.

Social media management tool Crowd Control HQ was introduced in July 2013 and is being rolled out across the Force’s 59 Twitter accounts and 35 Facebook pages.

The software means a user’s name will be stamped all interactions to allow greater accountability and the possibility to expand our social media reach. It also means that multiple Twitter and Facebook

accounts can be updated with the same post or tweet.

North Manchester will soon be running a pilot that gives nominated Hub officers the ability to monitor all of the Division’s social networks, increasing the time the accounts are active and improving the service to

the local community.

Longer term GMP will aim to provide 24 hour a day coverage on

accounts across the Force where there is public demand.

Within GMP social media has also become an important part of daily routines, whether for engaging with local communities or for gathering intelligence about crimes and incidents.

Training for all the 300 officers and staff who use social media is underway and anyone who has not yet been invited to a training session will be contacted by the Web Unit in Corporate Communications soon.

Our newest accounts are Wigan West and Fallowfield, with Wigan East to come while Longsight, Rochdale South, Rochdale North, Bury South and Bury North have been recently re-launched.

Payback for drug dealer A drug dealer has been ordered to repay more than £232,000 after telling a court about his drug empire.

While giving evidence during a trial into the murder of Junaid Khan for which he was charged and subsequently acquitted – Milad Finn made extensive admissions regarding his drug dealing activities, which he put forward to explain evidence against him.

Following the trial, court transcripts were obtained and a thorough investigation was launched by detectives from the Major Incident Team.

Transcripts revealed how Finn told the court that his first contact with illegal drugs was from the age

Interviews to go digital 10 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

As his orders grew, Finn told the court how he imported large quantities of caffeine and Benzocaine to act as mixing agents from China as well as sourcing similar products from within the UK and told the court he earned substantial amounts.

While the criminal investigation was being conducted, a specially trained financial investigator was painstakingly investigating Finn’s finances.

Finn admitted conspiracy to supply heroin and cocaine,

production of cannabis, converting criminal property and encouraging or assisting the commission of offences and was jailed for six years last September.

At a Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearing at Minshull Street Crown Court, Finn was found to have made £769,504,094 from his drug dealing activities.

Det Con Mark Chesters, from the Financial Investigation Unit, said: “By his own admission, Finn has been earning money from dealing drugs since he was 15, pocketing more than £700,000 in the process.

“This was a meticulous financial investigation that has resulted in a prolific drug dealer being jailed and ordered to repay his illegal gains.”

GMP is to replace all witness and suspect interview recording facilities with a digital interviewing solution.

This will completely change the way that interviews will be process and accessed. Digital equipment will be installed around the Force and

recordings will be stored in a central repository, allowing officers to access content from wherever they are based. Legal representatives and other authorised parties will also have access to recordings via a secure portal.

of 15 and that he dealt heroin and crack cocaine on behalf of someone else before setting up his own drug dealing empire.

News

Tackling mobile phone theft

By Danielle Danielle By Newman Newman

An officer gives out leaflets in the city centre

Twitter helps capture city centre bike thief A man was bailed with conditions not to enter the city, after a member of the public reported a man acting suspiciously near pedal cycles on Portland Street. As cycle theft is currently a priority for the city centre team, staff responded immediately and detailed a man in possession of a pair of pliers. The following day, one of the City Centre neighbourhood team’s 11,000 twitter followers tweeted the team to report

that the man was back in the city, dressed as he was the previous day.

The team exchanged messages with the twitter follower and got further details as well as CCTV. The team scoured the city and within a couple of hours found the man on Cross Street in possession of bolt croppers, spanners and tools.

He is now locked up for breach of bail and going equipped.

A man in tights is the star of a new campaign launched to help tackle an increase in mobile phone theft.

In the last three months, more than eight mobile phones were stolen a day in Manchester City Centre alone, while 16,000 were stolen across Greater Manchester last year.

Earlier this year, a man was jailed for two years after he was caught with more than 40 mobile phones down a pair of tights he was wearing under his trousers. GMP has mocked up a photo of the offender to use in a campaign to show phone owners the extent of the problem.

Ch Insp Gareth Parkin said: “As the popularity of smartphones rises, so too do the number of thefts but many victims seem unaware as to just how much their phone is worth.

“You wouldn’t walk around waving £500 in the air or leave a wad of cash on the table while having a coffee but this is exactly what people are doing with their phones.

“People store very personal things on their phones such as photos and videos of their children, text messages, emails and access to their social media accounts.

“Having a thief root through your phone can be as invasive as being burgled.”

“It’s not just opportunist low level thieves that are stealing phones, there are gangs that are working together targeting busy city centre venues or large scale events. Some of them will travel from afar to specifically target Manchester because they know how busy it is.

“Exporting stolen phones abroad is a very lucrative business and I have no doubt that the money made will be being used to fund further criminal activity.

“We have made some significant arrests and plain clothed officers are regularly patrolling hotspot areas to disrupt offenders but we need the public’s help to make life harder for thieves.”

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News This is the ‘droid you are looking for Greater Manchester Police has become the first Force in the UK to launch an Android mobile phone app.

The launch follows on from the success of the iPhone app which was launched in January this year and has been downloaded by more than 11,000 people.

The app uses geo-location technology to present information to users based on their location, such as their nearest police station or police community team.

Deputy Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “GMP prides itself on being at the forefront of social media and we are always looking at new ways that we can use it to communicate with our communities.

“Our app for iPhones was the first of its kind and received lots of positive feedback from users, with many people asking for an Android version. We listened to them and I’m really excited about today’s launch which will mean even more people will be able to access GMP on the go.”

The app has been developed in-house at no additional cost by Corporate Communications. If you have any suggestions about how the app can be developed to help your area of work, please email “Web Manager” The app is free of charge and Android users can download it from the Google Play store. The iPhone app is also available from Apple’s App Store. Search “GMPolice”

Tell us your business POLICE officers and police staff are reminded that they must declare ‘business interests’ to the Force.

The integrity of each of us is crucial to maintaining the trust and confidence of the public and it is crucial that a business interest is compatible with the role of police

officer or police staff.

You should be honest and open in the contracts you agree and ensure that you notify HM Revenue and Customs of any additional income and benefits received.

For more information visit the Force Intranet site. Alternatively

The GMP Police band are pleased to have made two new appointments.

Jonathan Taylor is the new Director of Music, whilst Barry Frost is Band Manager.

Jonathan said: "I feel very honoured and excited indeed to become the new Director of Music for GMP. “What the band has already in terms of quality and variety of its musicians and ensembles is astounding, however I am very much looking forward to taking this forward with new ideas, new music and new audiences.

“Together, we hope to engage much more with the community to inspire and entertain.”

contact the GMP Police Federation, UNISON or one of the Staff Associations for advice on the business interests policy, debt or similar welfare issues.

This support is most effective when early advice is sought.

New faces for the GMP Band

Jonathan Taylor (left) and Barry Frost (right)

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News

Excellence recognised THE 2012 Excellent Awards evening held in June recognised the outstanding achievements and contributions from officers and staff around the Force. Sarah Wilcox-Standring reports.

Police Staff Employee of the Year

Outstanding Team Performance

Winner: Tony Clitheroe, Vehicle Works Business Manager, Business Services Branch

Winner: Operation Rutlands, Wigan Division

Outstanding Leadership

Lifetime Achievement

Winner: Inspector Adam Greenslade, Roads Policing Unit, Specialist

Coordinator, Serious Crime Division

Winner: John Baron, Holmes

Operations Branch

THERE has been some outstanding work recognised by the Chief Constable since March.

Officers, staff and members of the public have been presented with long service awards and commendations for their outstanding work, dedication and bravery.

Commendation Corner Constantine finally reunited a girl with her mother.  The lead investigators, community and family liaison officers all received a Commendation following the tragic shooting of Anuj Bidve.

 PC David Coglan was recognised for saving the life of a man at Manchester Airport through applying first aid and using a defibrillator.

 Officers and staff from GMP, West Midlands and the CPS received awards for dismantling a violent and organised crime group.

 Also recognised for outstanding first aid skills was PC Scott Wolstenholme for saving a two year old girl.

 Operation Audacious tackled the supply of drugs across the city of Manchester and officers received a commendation for

 After a four year struggle DC Emma 14 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

their determination.  A victim of sexual exploitation nominated DC Claire Titterington for encouraging her to turn her life around.  High Commendations for bravery were also presented.  PC David Hodgkinson for saving a woman attempting to jump from a high rise balcony.  A man trapped in a burning car was saved by PCs Sam Robinson and Alan Twentyman, they also received a Royal Humane Society award.

News

You’ve been Framed!

PC David Frame (pictured above) was off duty in March when he witnessed an armed robbery unfold at Coral Bookmakers, Bramhall Lane, Stockport.

A man was pointing a handgun and demanding money from the

woman behind the counter.

Without any regard for his own safety David approached the man, who immediately challenged him and said “Don’t’ be a hero”, drawing out a claw hammer to reinforce the threat.

Standing firm, David took out his mobile and rang 999.

The man continued to wave the hammer menacingly and David moved to the front door, allowing the two customers in the shop to leave safely.

The member of staff handed over money to the man and David shut the front door, preventing his escape.

In a state of panic and anger the man tried forcing the door while threatening David.

Realising there was no way out he ran into the back of the shop to try and get out through the back door.

David gave chase and confronted him in the rear yard.

The man pointed the gun towards David and discharged the weapon before running through a side gate.

Shaken, David ran after him and each time he got close would be threatened with the gun.

Despite the continued threats David kept on the man’s heels and was able to instruct responding officers to locate him and arrest him.

The man was arrested and has admitted the robbery and three previous similar armed offences.

Had it not been for the brave and selfless actions of David, this man would still be committing armed robbery offence s today and endangering the lives of the people of Greater Manchester.

It was for this reason that he was chosen by Mrs Joan Egerton to be this year’s recipient of the John Egerton Trophy.

It was presented by John’s sister, at a ceremony at Force HQ.

Recognised for community work I was really delighted to have been nominated for services to policing and the community of Gorton after having worked there for 12 years.

I was able to take my mum (pictured), my wife and my daughter so it was a real family occasion.

I had a new uniform shirt, trousers and tie so felt fit for purpose. All the ladies had new outfits too, with complementing colours as I am told this is very important. They had to get up at 6.30 am in order to be ready for our 10 am taxi!

I was really nervous as among the recipients were Mo Farah and

Ewan McGregor. It was fantastic to see a familiar face as Janet Gould, police volunteer from Tameside was also receiving an MBE. Prince Charles was presiding and appeared genuinely interested with everyone. Fortunately he had been to Gorton and so could relate to the area and the challenges we faced.

After the ceremony we met with Sir Gerald Kaufman, had lunch in the House of Commons and saw Billy Elliot.

All in all, a totally incredible day!

By Insp Damien O’Reilly MBE

Insp Damien O’Reilly with his mum

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Features

Driven to succeed Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith talks to Rachel Atherton about a recent case and a perfect example of team work from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.

TWO men were sentenced to 16 months in prison and disqualified from driving for five years after fail to stop collision that nearly cost a motorcyclist his life.

On Monday 21st May 2013 the team from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) arrived at the scene having been briefed by officers who had spoken to witnesses. It was reported that two cars had been racing and one of these had crossed onto the wrong side of the road and struck a motorcyclist.

One of the cars, a Honda CRX was written off and still at the scene.

The driver was feigning illness inside the car. The other car involved, a silver mini, had left the scene.

The SCIU nominated a Senior Investigating Officer and the team split into three parts. Some officer’s dealt with the scene, others with the driver of the Honda and the final part dealing with the Mini.

The Honda driver was interviewed and charged within 12

16 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

hours of the collision and was remanded in custody.

What then followed was a seven week investigation with officers working round the clock to gather all the available evidence to prosecute the driver of the Honda CRX. He was charged and pleaded guilty on first appearance at Magistrates Court.

The driver was interviewed and charged within 12 hours of the Mobile phones were seized from the driver of the CRX and the driver’s brother. These were sent to the Mobile Phone Examination Unit within hours of the collision and reports produced whilst the driver was still in custody. Unfortunately whilst they were valuable evidence in relation to the detained driver, they provided no clues as to the

driver of the Mini.

As the investigation continued, officers were still looking for the silver Mini that had fled the scene.

Private CCVT footage revealed a silver Mini waiting behind the Honda CRX at some traffic lights some distance from the scene.

The Vehicle Examination Unit was then brought in to identify the car and rule out some models due to the body style.

The SCIU worked closely with GMP’s press office and design and print to produce and appeal and posters. Just as the team were preparing to head over to other force areas to continue their searches, the car was found.

Officers from the SCIU looked into possible users of the car and found a potential suspect at an address in Wythenshawe. An Observation Post was put in place but before they were briefed the Mini was reported to be out and about and was being followed.

SCIU officers stopped the car on

Features pleaded guilty. the Princess Park Way and the people in it were detained. The “The evidence included detailed potential suspect was not in the car maps of witness locations and at the time, however the two women testimony, cross referenced with in the car told officers they knew who CCTV sightings and footage of the the suspect was as he was. vehicles overtaking each other The suspect and another man moments before impact. were found at an address in Moss “There were forensic collision Side. They were questioned and the reconstruction reports detailing the second man was found to be the dynamics of the collision, indications front seat passenger at the time of of the types of speeds involved and the collision. They gave statements photographs of the scene and and the man suspected of driving the damage to the vehicles.” vehicle was arrested and the other The family liaison officer was treated as a key witness. tasked to obtain medical evidence Interview teams were then from a large number of health care selected and were briefed by the professionals and other agencies SCIU and the suspect was that were involved with the victim’s interviewed at Longsight Police immediate care and subsequent Station. On interview he admitted aftercare. A comprehensive victim driving the vehicle but denied any impact statement was prepared. racing with the Honda CRX and any The vehicle examination unit involvement in dangerous driving. provided analysis of the seized Mini The suspect also denied any Cooper and the CCTV footage that knowledge of the collision both at the had been recovered immediately time of it and since. before the collision. This was put into Whilst still in custody, evidence a report that provided irrefutable was gathered from the passenger in evidence that the two vehicles were the Mini, who described seeing a one and the same. fireball behind The CPS them as they commended the passed through “The team and all involved officer in the a traffic light worked so hard on this case for the junction - this dedication shown was the victim’s case and their dedication in tracing the motorbike Mini driver, the was something to be impacting with overall the Honda CRX. thoroughness of admired.”

He went on to the investigation say that the and the driver presentation of the case. commented on the fireball.

Inspector Bailey-Smith added: The wife and mother-in-law of the “No stone was left unturned and the Mini driver were also interviewed outcome was testament to how well and evidence showed that the this relatively new team could work suspect was the user of the car on together with other departments the day in question. It was also across the force to carry out a discovered that the Mini had been perfect investigation.” put into a garage just after the The case was featured on the collision and had only been put back BBC 3 television programme onto the road days before the ‘License to Kill.’ arrest.

Nikash Sultan (driver of Honda The driver was charged with the CRV) and Umair Qureshi (driver of offences of dangerous driving and Mini Cooper) were both sentenced to failing to stop at the scene of a 16 months imprisonment and collision. He formally entered no plea disqualified from driving for five at his first hearing but his solicitor years. indicated that it was likely he would plead not guilty.

Inspector Matt Bailey-Smith said: “The team and all involved worked so hard on this case and their dedication was something to be admired. The SCIU put together a file of evidence for court that was so overwhelming, both defendants Brief Summer 2013 Edition 17

Features In the first of our new regular feature on getting to know your neighbourhood, our new Internal Communications Officer Melissa Mead spent a day with two PCSOs from the East Manchester INPT. Throughout the day she learned about the challenges specific to the area and what the East Manchester Neighbourhood Policing Team is doing to address these.

Get to know your Manchester East

The GMP HQ is located in Central Park, a key regeneration area of East Manchester

Eastern promise

Manchester City MATCH days at the Manchester City Football Grounds attracts its own set of issues as a result of the vast increase of visitors to the area.

Specific problems that police are aiming to reduce are thefts from cars that are parked in the residential areas around the stadium.

Other arrests and cautions are likely to be antisocial behaviour related due to the volume of supporters and the drinking culture associated with football events.

GMP works closely with the club to police and monitor each event, working to raise the awareness of key issues with attendees and make visitors to the area feel welcome rather than threatened by the police presence.

They also run a regular column in their programmes that highlight the good work GMP is undertaking to reduce crime at the stadium (see p.39 for more information).

www.facebook.com/ GMPManchesterEast 18 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

EAST Manchester has seen significant investment over the past decade, with a number of regeneration projects adding a much-needed boost to the area for both business and tourism.

Since the 2002 Commonwealth Games, East Manchester has become a renowned centre for sports and sports-related businesses – with Sport City, the Manchester Velodrome and a new stadium being built for Northern Premier League team FC United.

A Metrolink tram service has been introduced throughout the East Manchester area, making it more accessible for the City Centre.

The line currently ends at Droylsden, but will be extended to Ashton-Under-Lyne by early 2014.

Chips building, Ancoats Bordering with the City Centre, Ancoats and New Islington are both areas attracting a mix of new businesses and city living for young professionals.

Last but not least the choice of GMP’s new headquarters, Central Park, is located close to Newton Heath in the heart of the regeneration area of East Manchester.

This new development of green space, businesses and educational centres is a step towards Manchester’s growth as a location of choice for new businesses.

Clayton residents get behind GMP Following the tragic shootings in the Clayton area in September 2012, GMP has seen a positive reaction from local residents. People have come together with the police in the area to tackle crime, with an increased attendance at community meetings and a rise in a number of people who are willing to come forward with information that will help to reduce crime.

Features

neighbourhood

Public order reaches new heights

Abbey Hey, Ancoats, Beswick, Clayton, Debdale, Gorton, Miles Platting, Newton Heath, Openshaw

Operation Arc Light strikes in Gorton GORTON is a particularly challenging location for the East Manchester division due to it being more densely populated than the rest of the neighbourhood.

One of the measures put in place to address the high rate of crime in the Gorton and Abbey Hey areas was Operation Arc Light, a day in which 80 officers targeted criminal activity in the area.

Led by the East Manchester Neighbourhood Policing Team, Op Arc Light also involved officers from the Serious Organised Crime Agency.

Five warrants were executed resulting in the arrest of three people. Class A and B drugs were also taken off the streets and a dangerous dog was seized.

In addition two traffic points were set up in areas that had been flagged up by the community as a priority. More than 60 drivers were stopped for traffic offences and two vehicles were seized.

Sergeant John-Paul Ruffle from the East Manchester Neighbourhood Policing Team who coordinated the day’s activity said: “This operation reinforced our commitment to the local area and caused significant disruption to criminals.

“As well as the enforcement activity we carried out, our team of PCSOs spoke to local residents about their concerns and more than 50 people signed up to be a part of our key individual network and help us improve engagement in the area.”

Members of the community were invited to watch the warrants and traffic operation to gain an insight into the work being done to improve their area.

Local resident Liz Shaw said: “I can see progress and I like what I am seeing. It takes a lot of time and hard work putting together this and I would like to thank you for all the hard work and commitment that you do for this area.

“No words can express how much this means for the community - getting the criminals off the streets so everyone feels safe in their community.”

@GMPGorton @GMPBradford

@GMPNewton Heath

MANCHESTER Airport’s Concorde Conference Centre hosted a public order exercise with a difference.

Held under the wings of Concorde, this unique continuous professional development exercise was hosted

by Airport Police Trainer, Paul Nield supported by his training partner Steve Cragg as well as the Force Command level public order trainers.

Attended by Gold, Silver and Bronze Commanders from across the Force as well as operational staff from neighbouring divisions, colleagues from Cheshire police and senior partners from Manchester Airport.

The delegates even got the chance to have a tour of the Concorde at lunch time.

More from Mo

Handler PC Mark Richardson trains Mo on a daily basis

‘MO’ the Alsatian puppy featured on the last cover of Brief , and his picture has been clicked on and shared thousands of times via our social media channels. Three months on, Brief went to see how he was getting on – and hasn’t he grown!

Age: Six months.

Handler: PC Mark Richardson, Tactical Dog Unit.

Future career: General purpose police dog primarily used for tracking and building searches Favourite food: Mo gets the same standard diet as the other police dogs, but he has developed a taste for leather and eaten both his own and his handler’s other dog’s leather collars!

Favourite things to do: Rolling in puddles and bullying his companion Labrador when at home.

Personality type: Feisty and enthusiastic Brief Summer 2013 Edition 19

Features

G8 summit comes to Northern Ireland Read what happened through the eyes of Asmar Chaudhry, one of GMPʼs Press Officers who worked at the G8.

I spent just over a week in Belfast to offer mutual aid as a press officer during the G8 Summit, and here’s what happened…..

Wednesday 12 June It is my first day here and we’ve been shown around. It will take time to get my head around the mazy corridors and all of the different staircases, but everyone here is very friendly. I’ve logged on just to make sure I’m all set up to work here.

Thursday 13 June This morning I decided to go out for a run before heading to the office.

It is fascinating to see how one minute you are on a riverfront and in a city reaping the benefits of regeneration and moments later you are in neighbourhoods that do not hide their allegiances. It may be peaceful here, but the people of Belfast are in no mood to simply forget the past, something I suspect has not escaped the PSNI. It’s 1pm and time for the start of my shift and desperate to get stuck in. It is a relief to speak to officers and the media again, after all this is what I am here for!

14 June It will be a busy day in the city tomorrow with many planned anti-G8 protests taking place, so a few of us had today off. We visited the superb Titanic centre followed by a pub lunch!

Saturday 15 June A rain-drenched Belfast hosted demonstrations. These passed off without incident. Not one arrest when there were more than 2,000 people 20 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

involved, championing a variety of causes.

Proactive updates to the media and a lack of incidents on the ground meant that in reality very few media enquiries came in.

Sunday 16 June During our lunch break, a mutual aid colleague and I went to the magnificently put together memorial garden at Force HQ. We came across plaques bearing the names of fallen officers; one for each decade of the twentieth century. Sadly the plaques for the 70s and 80s bore a lot more names than the rest. Too many officers, and too many civilians, lost their lives during the troubles, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten by the PSNI. Monday 17 June The world leaders arrived this morning to the warmest of welcomes, but only one of them attracted a box office audience.

Speaking at the Waterfront centre in Belfast, President Obama paid tribute to the people of Northern Ireland, and thanked Chief Constable Matt Baggott for ensuring everyone stayed safe in the run up to the summit. This endorsement prompted a flurry of interview bids, but we can’t take our eyes off the ball just yet.

Tonight, particularly in Lough Erne, County Fermanagh, Operation Sponsor is well and truly in full flow.

Tuesday 18 June Almost as soon as Air Force One took to the sky, marking the end of a peaceful summit, enquiries started to come that made us think the media coverage could change direction, did the PSNI overplan and overspend on the security operation? Helpfully, the

Secretary of State was quick to leap to our defence.

I met Ch Con Baggott today and also dealt with queries on the back of the PM tweeting that an old WW2 mortar had been found in Lough Erne while it was being searched prior to the summit!

Wednesday 19 June Both Ch Con Baggott and Gold Commander ACC Alistair Finlay vehemently defended the costs of the security operation at the press conference this morning. Given the unique historical and political context here, the PSNI simply could not afford to leave anything to chance.

Any signs of under planning, Mr Baggott said, and ‘this room would have been packed’. It was not even a quarter full.

Friday 21 June Bags packed and out tonight for well-earned drinks with the PSNI press office. They can’t let their hair down for long though; marching season is already upon us. As for the rest of us, it’s been an amazing experience and we all hope our new friends will seize on the unique opportunity this successful G8 summit has given them. One of the proudest moments in the history of Northern Ireland means its people, and its police force can look forward to a brighter future.

Features

Preventing elderly abuse

PCSO calls on elderly resident

We’ve all read or heard about bogus callers who have swindled pensioners out of their life savings. They had seemed genuine enough when they offered to repair that window or roof, tidy the garden or fit an alarm.

GMP raises the awareness of elder abuse across our communities and works with partners to provide the right support at the right time.

Officers and staff around this Force are well aware of the issues and work in our communities to raise the awareness of the mistreatment of older adults wherever they live.

They do an amazing job of reaching into those communities to raise the awareness of bogus callers and help

prevent pensioners from getting caught out. For example, in Oldham, PCSO Steve Kenny has been speaking to elderly residents on a local estate about some of the problems and providing crime prevention advice. During each surgery he also makes sure he’s heard their concerns and gets back to the 25-30 members who attended.

In Northenden, Wythenshawe PCSO’s Andrea Ball and John

Buckley have also been busy speaking to the elderly community particularly around door stop crime.

Andrea said: “After speaking to local residents we found that there were a large number of elderly residents, some of whom had already been victims of this sort of crime.”

They have since set up a home watch scheme providing an opportunity for them to update residents on any issues relating to this type of crime. They have also spoken to a group of female pensioners and provided literature and stickers warning bogus officials not to call.

Targeting abuse by care home staff Safeguarding officers work on each division within the Public Protection Investigation Units and investigate all types of abuse against vulnerable adults. This includes investigating care home staff when they abuse their elderly patients 22 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

Example one: A victim with severe learning difficulties and couldn’t speak was helped to her bath by two carers.

One carer left the bathroom to get some clothes and heard the other

carer shouting at the victim. She returned to the bathroom and witnessed the carer slap the victim across the top of her head in an unprovoked assault.

Parental abuse

ANOTHER form of elder abuse is abuse by a child to a parent and this can be violent, psychological, emotional or for financial gain.

Det Ch Supt Simon Retford from the Trafford Division has been researching this area of crime. “In 2012 I studied for a master degree in criminal psychology and during that time it became clear that this was an emerging crime and very much under researched.

“A lot of perpetrators often have other problems such as drugs, alcohol or mental health issues. At the moment there is a disproportionately high demand on police resources but here at Trafford

Selfish motives: Stephen Seddon

we are working together with our partners to ensure that the right support is in place for the perpetrators, their parent victims as well as the wider family.

“From the people I’ve spoken to so far, they tell me that while the reporting of the problem has gone up as a result of talking about the problem, there are very few who actually know that what they face.

This is the case both in the professional world and with the families themselves.

For the parent they can be embarrassed or feel they need to protect their child or have let them down in some way. Also the parent

Features

will often get blamed for a child’s behaviour and in some cases will be told to sort out their kids out we’ll take them off you. This clearly isn’t the answer as it is important that all the agencies work together.

The new strategy isn’t going to increase the demand on our resources as we are already dealing with the people involved.

It should however enable other agencies to get involved to provide the right expertise at the right time to the family.”

As Det Ch Insp Retford continues his research, we will be following his progress in a future edition of Brief.

In March this year, Stephen Seddon from Sale was jailed for a minimum of 40 years for the murder of his parents.

At the time that Seddon was sentenced Supt Denise Worth said: “He knew that due to tragic family circumstances, he would be the next of kin who would inherit the family home on Clough Avenue as well as their finances.

Seddon wanted more money and thought nothing of killing his mum and dad for his own selfish motives.”

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 23

Features

Taking up the challenge of fostering PCSO Mark Derbyshire joined GMP in April 2006.

PCSO Mark Derbyshire His passion for community work carried through to his personal life five years ago, when he and his wife made the decision to become foster carers.

He shares his experiences below…

Why did you decide to foster?

I find the PCSO role very satisfying but five years ago myself and my wife felt ready to take on a new challenge, and decided that fostering would be right for us.

My partner and I talked about it previously when our baby was two.

We wanted to give a child the chance of a loving secure home, like that our own children had.

How easy is it to become a foster carer?

You have your initial visit, then you go on a six week 'Skills to Foster' training course, one night a week, which we found very informative.

You then receive feedback and a home visit from a social worker. After this you are assigned your own social worker, who fills the assessment form out and gets to know you more before you can be approved.

I found the whole process therapeutic and comparable to counselling - it helps you to get to know yourself and makes you a better person for it.

Fostering is easy if you have nothing to hide.

How has being a PCSO helped you with fostering?

There are a lot of similarities between being a PCSO and a foster carer; such as working with other agencies including social workers and health workers.

I also meet people who have come from difficult backgrounds and have to win over their trust. In both roles what’s really important is being able to show empathy, understanding and have a caring attitude.

With so much cross over, I’m surprised I don’t come across more PCSOs who are foster carers.

What are the highs and lows of being a foster carer?

The highs are the sense of achievement that comes with fostering, knowing that we have played a part in improving the quality of a child’s life while they have been with us.

When you get correspondence from the adoptive parents and see photographs of them, you can see how happy they are and settled and you know you've played your part in getting them there.

The lows are that it can be heartbreaking when the children move on, especially if you have made a solid attachment with them and them with you.

Can you give an example of where you've gained a real sense of achievement from fostering?

The most rewarding aspect of fostering is when others see an improvement in the foster child's behaviour or demeanour; when you see the children growing in confidence in themselves and their personalities developing is when you get the greatest sense of pride.

Happy Birthday Blackley One of @GMPBlackley’s 3000 followers on Twitter has enjoyed the tweets from the local officers so much, that she had a cake especially made to celebrate the second anniversary of the team’s very first tweet.

The cake was baked to look like a police station in miniature was handed over to the neighbourhood team who then cut it up and sold slices around the North Manchester Division DHQ, with all proceeds going to charity.

PC Carla Doran is pictured proudly showing off the magnificent and much appreciated gift.

24 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

Features

Credit to their community SCHOOLCHILDREN are helping police to crackdown on irresponsible parking and speeding around St Aidans Primary School in Northern Moor.

Following complaints from local residents and parents, PCSO Andrea Ball decided to recruit some mini officers to help her get the message out about road safety.

Pupils joined PCSO Ball on patrol around the school and spoke to parents to raise awareness of speeding and inconsiderate parking.

PCSO Andrea Ball said: “Road

Pupils from St Aidens Primary School helping get messages out about road safety

safety around schools is very important but drivers will only change their behaviour if they are aware of the consequences and who better to hear it from than a small

child.

“The pupils thoroughly enjoyed being part of a process that will make a difference to their safety and are a credit to their community.”

Chief’s Ball fundraising GMP fundraising efforts have managed to raise more than £22,000 for Key 103’s Cash for Kids and charity, Retrak.

GMP Chief Constable, Sir Peter Fahy, said: “Both charities work tirelessly to support those at a disadvantage and I’m pleased to see the money we have raised being put back into the two groups.”

Pictured left is Ch Cons Sir Peter Fahy delivering the cheque to Key103 presenters.

Commended for compassion The victim personally rang the Awards Team at GMP to recommend Claire and sent a highly emotional and passionate report as to why she thought an award should be presented.

Ch Cons Peter Fahy with DC Claire Titterington This young woman had been on a destructive path and by A victim of sexual exploitation has her own statement was inconsistent, turned her life around due to the chaotic and at great risk of harm. compassion and understanding of She had no trust in anyone, DC Claire Titterington. particularly not the police. Then she

met Claire.

Claire’s compassion and honesty earned the girl’s trust and slowly she began to gain a sense of self belief.

She and other girls trapped in the cycle of abuse felt that Claire really understood them and has helped their confidence to improve their lives.

They all insisted that Claire was a brilliant officer , a statement which was echoed by Detective Chief Superintendent Mary Doyle.

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 25

Features

Mentoring in Afghanistan PC Jaymes Smirthwaite from Rochdale is currently serving in Afghanistan with the Territorial Army and is using his police skills to help the Afghan army.

In 2008 Jaymes put his name forward as a police mentor in Afghanistan and last year was mobilised.

He said: “I joined the Territorial Army in 1994 as a stop gap before joining the regular army but I joined the police instead.

“However, since then I have been mobilised to work in Bosnia and Iraq so I had a good idea of what to expect.

“As you can imagine policing in Afghanistan is quite different to policing in the UK. “They are more like an armed paramilitary and only really deal with serious crime such as murder, rape

or serious theft.

“That is, if it is reported and someone is arrested.”

Other offences are normally dealt with by the elders of the community, a sort of restorative justice approach.

“They decide if the person is guilty or not and hand out punishment, such as handing over money, land or even marriage.”

The majority of the Afghan police are illiterate and only five per cent can read or write.

The intelligence officer that Jaymes works with cannot read or write.

He manages around 150 to 200 ‘sources’ by mobile phone but of course cannot record anything that happens.

His life is often in danger because of the type of work he is doing.

If he was killed there are no

PC Jaymes Smirthwaite

records and all those ‘sources’ would be lost.

Jaymes will be returning to the UK later this year and Brief will catch -up with him to find out more about this tour and getting back into life as an officer in Rochdale.

Meeting the Magistrates National Chair of the Magistrates Association who are also both members of the Trafford Bench, spoke in depth about how a court operates and explained some of the reasoning behind decisions that officers may find frustrating.

L-R: Supt Jim Liggett, Richard Monkhouse JP Supt Jim Liggett who and Kate Hughes JP organised the sessions said: “A number of changes in OFFICERS and staff in Trafford criminal justice processes in recent have become the first in the country years has meant that police officers to hear first-hand about the workings now attend court far less frequently. of a magistrate’s court during a “Effective use of out of court number of ‘Police Information disposals, increased levels of guilty Seminars’. plea rates and the fact that there are Kate Hughes JP, Chair of the lower levels of overall crime across newly formed Manchester Orbital Trafford, means that officers rarely Branch of the Magistrates attend court to give evidence.

Association for Greater Manchester “Therefore, I felt that there was a and Richard Monkhouse JP, growing lack of understanding about 26 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

the workings of the Magistrates Court. “ “Very often officers who have worked extremely hard in investigating an offence and securing a charging decision feel frustrated when suspects receive bail, or when offenders receive what the officer perceives to be a lenient sentence.

“Over time however, there have been a number of changes to both bail and sentencing guidelines and legislation that dictate how Magistrates must deal with certain circumstances.

“The training has helped to better inform the police officer about the Magistrates powers in relation to bail and sentencing.”

In addition to the great feedback received from staff the information sessions proved very beneficial to the Magistrates.

Features

WELCOME TO THE GMP TEAM North Manchester cadets at passing out parade (above, top right, bottom right) and taking part in the Manchester Day Parade last month (above left)

THE Force’s first volunteer police cadets have officially become part of the GMP family following their passing out parade.

The 28 young people from GMP’s first cadet scheme in North Manchester attended a ceremony at Force HQ. Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy presented them with berets and certificates for passing their initial training in front of members of their family and friends.

The GMP cadet scheme is open to 13-17 year olds and will be opening in ten areas across Greater Manchester before the end of this year.

The scheme gives young people the chance to gain key life skills while making a difference in their local communities Following the presentation the cadets then showed their newly developed marching skills in a parade before the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Mr Warren Smith, the Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy and other distinguished guests, family and friends.

Sir Peter Fahy said: The reason we’ve launched the scheme is because a big part of what we do in Greater Manchester Police is build up relationships with local people, and forging relationships with young

people is a key part of this.

“We’ve worked closely with schools, and a lot of our officers and PCSOs have set up youth groups and projects, but now the opportunity to set up a proper youth volunteer cadet scheme is really exciting.

“We see in our day to day work that young people often get a very bad press, but actually when you look at them, the rate of youth offending is going down there are fewer young people getting into trouble and they are using drugs a lot less.

“What we see is that they are really very impressive and might do a better job of running this world than we do.”

Greater Manchester’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd, added: “I’ve listened to some great stories tonight about some of our new police cadets as their citations were read out.

“Some want to join the police force when they are older, some want to join the army and some want to pursue very different walks of life.

“All the cadets should be very proud of themselves for what they’ve achieved so far.”

More than £10m has been invested by the Department of Communities and Local Government

(DCLG) to support the expansion of uniformed youth groups in 11 areas in England.

Sgt Jane Butler, development officer for GMP’s volunteer cadet scheme, said: “Following the disorder of 2011 the government saw the need to improve young people’s opportunities and life skills in some of the most disadvantaged areas of England.

“Greater Manchester has been identified as one of those areas and so is one of the 11 regions to receive some of the DCLG funding.

“We are grateful to the support from DCLG, as we see the scheme helping to make Greater Manchester safer by reducing youth vulnerability to crime, and enhancing young people’s ability to contribute to their communities.”

The scheme is led by police officers, PCSOs, Specials, trainers and volunteers from GMP, and provides young people with an opportunity to develop key life skills, learn about the policing family and volunteer their time.

During the ceremony the guests heard stories about each cadet, and that each of them wanted a chance to improve themselves and to further their opportunities in life.

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 27

Features

Getting fit and healthy as the obvious health perks of getting at least an hour’s exercise every day, I would say that being out in the fresh air regularly is the best thing that cycling gives you.

“I get to see and experience Manchester from a different perspective.

It’s also economical – I save up to £120 per month in diesel, whilst having a lower impact on the environment.”

Tony’s mission now is to spread the word about the benefits of biking to work. He PC Tony Hemans all geared up for his daily commute has written a blog specifically about the El Camino Challenge route along with a Challenge, Tony has been inspired dedicated members Facebook group to continue with his cycling and for cyclists to share their knowledge thanks to GMP’s cycle to work and experience. scheme has commuted to work He is also continuing to push every day come rain or shine, himself as a cyclist, with plans to clocking up 40 miles a day, complete the 112 mile Fred Whitton amounting to nearly 3000 miles in Challenge in the Lake District and total. also the Manchester 100 Mile ride in Commenting about the benefits of aid of The Christie in September this cycling to work, Tony said: “As well year.

Inspired to cycle to work LAST year, Brief caught up with PC Tony Hemans (pictured above) when he successfully completed the gruelling ‘El Camino Challenge’, cycling the Camino de Santiago route in Spain and raising money for three charities in the process.

That particular challenge was to complete the 845km route in six days.

Since completing the El Camino

Have fun at Sedgley Park boot camp THOSE looking for fun ways to get fit are invited to join in the weekly ‘Boot Camp’ sessions in the grounds of Sedgley Park.

The sessions, run by a qualified personal trainer, cater for all abilities and levels of fitness. The workout consists of running or walking, high

28 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

intensity interval training, toning and a cool down.

Val Lee from the OLWD branch had the idea to start the sessions.

She said: “I started attending a Boot Camp at the Longfield Suite in Prestwich on a Saturday morning. It was hard work but very beneficial for my fitness.

“I mentioned it to various people and they asked whether or not we could arrange a session at Sedgley Park.

“Our SLT were very supportive.

The group support each other throughout the session, it really is great for team building and meeting colleagues socially after work.”

Features Getting ready for the fitness test

Showing it can be done are: (pictured left to right) Ch Supt Caroline Ball, Supt Karan Lee, PC Steve Phillips, Ch Cons Sir Peter Fahy, Pat Jones, Ch Insp Jill Clarke, Sarah Wilcox‐Standring and Daniel Beech

THE fitness test is due to be introduced later this year. Having a basic level of fitness is important to GMP as it helps individuals cope with the stresses and strains of being on the front line.

Any form of exercise has a number of benefits. These include general health, weight management, fitness levels, improved breathing and the realisation of natural endorphins to get that feel good buzz.

PC Phillips said: “I know the fitness test may seem daunting to some people. I can totally understand this as after my stroke I was petrified. I was scared that I might do myself more damage but literally little steps have helped me take giant leaps. People say I can't do it then they’ll never be able to do it.“

Marathon man IN May 2011, PC Steve Phillips couldn’t run half a mile after surgery and a stroke.

Gradually building up his strength and with a bit of determination he has proved that anyone can run.

“I’m not saying everyone can run a marathon but I think with a little bit of work I’m sure that most people could run or run and walk a five kilometre running event.

“In Sept 2011 I completed the Salford 10k. While it was my slowest time ever it was a real achievement for me as I didn't think I'd ever be able to run that distance again.

“In June last year I ran England’s

PC Steve Phillips gets a feel good buzz from running

Coast to Coast which is equivalent to five marathons in five days and in May this year set off on a 230-mile run from Hyde to Bournemouth in memory of PCs Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes.

“I was apprehensive before setting off because this was the

furthest I'd run on consecutive days – nine and a half marathons in six days. The support from colleagues and members of the public along the way has been great and I once I’ve collected all the money I expect to have raised more than £4,500.”

Boot Camp sessions run every Thursday from 3.30 to 4.30pm (whatever the weather!) and cost just £3 per week.

If you’d like to take part just turn up at the main house at Sedgley Park at 3.30pm.

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 29

GMP Community

Park run with a difference

a coffee with his missus.

Sgt Metcalfe, pictured above, said: “He looked at me quizzically.

Well who wouldn't, a cop running past in full uniform with 400 other runners.

“I smiled and called over a cheery "morning". He broke into a huge grin,

TO help celebrate Heaton Park’s fourth anniversary of their Park Run a number of officers from the North Manchester Integrated Neighbourhood Policing Team took part in full uniform.

As Sgt Alex Metcalfe passed the cafe on the lake for the second time he spotted a chap sat there enjoying

waved and said good morning back.

“More than hour later when the vast majority of people had all gone home I was approached by the lady who was with the man at the cafe..

“All she said was ‘thank you very much, you have absolutely made my day.’ They then waved and walked away.”

Parkrun organise free, weekly, five kilometre timed runs and there are more than 10 in the Greater Manchester area. They are open to everyone, free, and are safe and easy to take part in. They don’t cost anything, you just need to register and turn up. Visit www.parkrun.org.uk. Events held at Leigh: Pennington Flash; Oldham: Alexandra Park; Salford: Worsley Woods; Manchester: Wythenshawe Park and Platt Fields Park; Stockport: Stockport Harriers Athletic Ground, Varley Park, Bramhall Park.

s t n e v e P M G

August 2013

3 September 201 7‐8 Sept

7th S e

23‐26 Bolto

Aug

n Fo od a Drink nd Fest ival, Victo ria S quar e

Aug 18

Lite at Nite C hildren triathlo ’s Char n, Abb ity ey Hey Lane, Gorton

13‐15 Sept

Aug 23‐26 Pride, Manchester & Canal St Town Centre

26 Aug Summer Bank Holiday 30 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

pt Wiga n Dig gers Fest

ival, To w n

Cent re

National Taekw ondo Championships 2013 – Sportcity, East Manchester

8th Sept ne‐day NatWest o gland vs. cricket. En Old Australia, Trafford

Ramsbottom M usic Festival, Ramsbottom C ricket Club

Aug 25‐26 Bank Holiday Family Fun Day at the A rts and Craft s Centre, Nort hern Quarte r

Sept 26‐29

Buy Art Fair, s, Spinningfield Manchester

GMP Community

Letters of Appreciation Send copies of letters or emails of thanks and appreciation to Brief, Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, making sure that the recipient’s full name, not just number, is included. Letters may be edited for reasons of space.

A caring team For a number of years I was in a violent controlling relationship. The fear of my boyfriend was so great that I couldn’t even think for myself.

I was so frightened I didn’t think anyone could help or protect me, I soon found out that wasn’t true.

When I phoned the police I was put through to the Domestic Violence Unit at Cheadle Heath Police Station. I found the strength to report the incident and this is where I met DC Leena Mistry. She took my statement which was in itself an ordeal. She listened patiently and comforted me when I thought I couldn’t relive anymore of what had happened.

In the days that followed the whole team at the Domestic Violence Unit at Cheadle Heath including DC Leena Mistry, DC Sally Prest, DC Lisa McPhearson and DC Andrew Clayton kept me informed of all that was going on.

This has been a very emotional time in my life, at times I thought I would never get through the day.

Without all these people and the fantastic jobs they do, I honestly don’t know what would have happened to me, I can only hope that more women who are in abusive relationships find the courage to take that first step.

I am slowly rebuilding my life, but this has only been possible because of the Domestic Violence Unit Team and the outreach teams. Saying thank you doesn’t even come close to the gratitude I feel towards these unselfish, caring people, without who, I genuinely don’t think I would 32 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

be here today.

Miss S, Stockport Excellent communications A note to thank PCSO Tracy Rollings for supporting the Year Six children’s ‘I can Make it Happen aspirations’ project. PCSO Rollings was brilliant with the young people and was excellent communicating with the 60+ children that visited Tonge UCAN to inform them about jobs locally.

Credit to the Forc e

I would l ike to br ing to yo attentio ur n an exc e ll e police w ork and t nt example of o expres gratitud s my e to one o f your of My fifte ficers. en year o ld son w victim of a s the a street robbery wasn’t h . He urt but w as shake attitude n up. The of PC Jo

celyn Tomlinso n throug hout wa genuine s one of car was reas e and understan d suring to see a po ing. It officer d lice isplaying such ad sensitive mirable, behavio u r.

N.Z., Sou th Manc hester

Community Development, Bolton Hard working Just a note to say it’s good to see our local PCSO Gunter Bauer back on our patch on Water Street.

He has been a great help and someone we can ask for assistance where needed. His presence around Meadow Industrial Estate is a deterrent to would be wrongdoers.

On several occasions we’ve been unlucky to have had break-ins but you can guarantee PCSO Bauer will be round to give advice and put you at ease. Many thanks for all his hard work and advice on security.

HSL Team, Stockport Giving credit We would like to thank PCSOs Simon Berry, Christopher Davenport, Aimee Bell and Emma Mounkley for all their help and

support given to us over the last few months. It was a very difficult time for us, but you were all there, with phone calls, visits and good advice.

Sometimes we know you don't get the credit you deserve but we want you to know we appreciated you all so much. Thank you once again.

A&PR, Stockport Calmed me down Thank you to Sgt John Moorhouse, who was off duty when a friend and I were involved in a minor car accident.

My car was written off after hitting a dislodged manhole due to heavy rain. John stopped to help us move our car and advise us what to do which really helped calm me down as I didn’t know what to do at that

GMP Community point.

John was probably on his way home but stopped to help us in the pouring rain for half an hour and I am really grateful.

Member of public, Bolton

more serious offence would merit; and PC Gaskell and others deserve to be congratulated on a job well done and a crime successfully solved.

Mr J. Gallagher, south Manchester

Invaluable help I feel that I must put pen to paper and thank PC Simon Jones and PCSO Martin Heyes for their help and support after my recent break-in.

In this day and age when crime is on the increase, the help and consideration I received as an individual has been invaluable and I now feel more secure in my own home. Thank you once again.

Mrs S.R., Stockport Bike found and returned I feel compelled to write and express my gratitude regarding the return of my pedal cycle. Despite various CCTV coverage of the area I had given up hope of ever seeing the bike again. PC Chris Gaskell however, traced the said bike and returned it to me.

It is gratifying to know that such a relatively minor crime has been investigated with the same vigour a

Professional team I would like to take this opportunity to thank your team for the assistance given to my investigators on a recent benefit fraud arrest, search and seizure operation.

My staff have fed back to me that the professionalism, attitude and assistance given to them by your officers was excellent. Please pass on my sincere thanks to PC Christopher Schofield and PC Darren Cookson and their colleagues for their assistance and professionalism during the operation.

D Mooney, FIS Rusholme/ Longsight

Blamed myself I want to commend PC Gareth Denison on the sensitive and tenacious way he conducted the investigation. From his first visit to

final email after sentencing, I have been kept in the loop. Even when Gareth was on leave he made sure that another officer kept me informed.

At the time of the theft I believed that, because the crime was committed by someone I had put my trust in I blamed myself.

Gareth and your other officers changed my perception and made me realise that I was a victim of a cynical crime and it wasn’t my fault. At no time did Gareth make me feel that this crime was insignificant compared to more serious crimes.

I am heartened by my recent experience and want to thank all the personnel that have been involved.

Ms J Leon, south Manchester

Keeping safe I just wanted to thank you for to Sgt Phil Lowe all the time and effort that he put into finding J-L and making sure that she was safe. It was very reassuring to me that you took it seriously and I appreciate that you kept me informed of what was happening.

So, thank you.

JB, Stockport

Many thanks @gmpolice for their swift response to the burlgary at my home yesterday. Everyone involved

Joshua Campbell I rang the non-emergency number (101) earlier this evening for what can be described as an unusual complaint/ enquiry and I think the way in which the call operator handled my call was brilliant. She hadn't come across this type of incident before but she still gave me the best advice possible.

Riah @riah1812 Would like to thank @gmpolice for their help with an incident at our shop in Salford on Sunday they were amazing at such a horrible time!! X

Elle Adams Just want to leave some good feedback for GMP and especially PC 15875 for professional, helfpul and positive service. Many thanks, much appreciated. :)

Ryan Murphy @ryymurph @gmpolice I've always thought British Police are the best. I've been around the world and the people doing the job here are mint

Helen Schutzmann @schutzypants

Jimmy Gingell I would just like to say a big thank you to Sergeant Jim Burland - you really are a credit to the force and the community you serve. You went the extra mile for me and although I didn't get all my expenses back, you did make sure the £150 holding fee I had to pay the holding yard who stored my stolen bike is now being refunded to me, so again thank you Jim Burland for undertanding my predicement and bein easy to talk to :)

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 33

GMP Community

Officers cycle 910 miles for charity

The officers who took part in the 910 mile cycle in the memorial garden created for Nicola and Fiona in Hyde

“My dad took part in this trek each of us having some difficult A team of officers have raised some years ago and spurred on by moments, we all managed to more than £5,000 for charity after that the lads and I at work decided it complete the 998 miles, climbing cycling 910 miles from one end of was the right time for us to also take more than 42000 feet and spent 63 the UK to the other. part. hours in the saddle!

The eight officers from “When we began planning for the “There were mornings when we departments across the Force woke up not wanting to get on completed the cycle ride in the bike again but the eight days to raise money “It is such a worthwhile cause that does camaraderie and team work for Macmillan Cancer and the Police Dependent’s so much for families and officers alike” between everyone was excellent.

Trust.

“We had great support on the ride we decided to raise money for way and numerous donations from The group began their eight-day Macmillan Cancer as a number of members of the public. journey at John ‘o’ Groats before the team have known someone taking a route via the memorial “We would like to thank everyone affected by the disease. garden for PCs Fiona Bone and for their support and “However following the deaths of Nicola Hughes at Hyde Police encouragement.”

PCs Hughes and Bone we decided Station.

Anyone wanting to donate money to also raise money for a police One of the organisers, PC Kirk to the group can do so via: charity as we feel it is such a Johnson from the Tactical Vehicle www.justgiving.com/team-jogle for worthwhile cause that does so much Intercept Unit, said: “Last year we Macmillan Cancer and for families and officers alike. took part in the Three Peaks www.justgiving.com/team-jogle2 for “The ride was tough but Challenge to raise money for Help the Police Dependants’ Trust. enjoyable at for Heroes and this time round we the same wanted to step it up and gear and time. take part in something with more challenging.

“Despite 34 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

GMP Community

Charities Trainee PCSOs already going above and beyond

Copperpot Winners £2,000 Pauline Edwards, Retired £1,000 Jenna Smith, GMP £500 Denise McGowan, Retired £250 Gregory Bennett, GMP Rosemarie Hodgkiss, Relative £150 Karen Broadbent, GMP Marsha Randle, Nottinghamshire £100 Philip Davies, North Wales Andrew Fittes, Metropolitan

Some of GMP’s newest recruits with the food items they’ve collected for Oldham’s food bank SOME of GMP’s newly recruited PCSOs took time out of their training to deliver more than 300 items of food to Oldham Food bank.

The group have collected the food items from mainly police staff and officer colleagues who have attended training at Sedgley Park.

PC David Mellors who has been training the PCSOs said: “We wanted to link in with a local charity that works with and helps local people. This would then give PCSOs an introduction to working with local communities and give them a taste of what it’s like to be actively involved.

“Our chosen charity, the Oldham Food Bank gives food parcels to local families who are experiencing crisis, and for whatever reason cannot put food on the table.

“The students are developing their communication skills by visiting a variety of classes within the training centre and giving a short presentation on the aims and objectives of charity, culminating in a request for food donations.

“So far we've collected over 300 items of food from colleagues, their generosity has been staggering. I'm really proud of what this class have achieved so far.”

Paul Bruckshaw, GMP Andrew Dawson, GMP Sheikh Uddin Ahmed, Metropolitan Deborah McConnell, Retired Heather Cox, Retired £50 Ian Murgatroyd, Retired Brian North, Retired Bernard Rees, Retired James Delaney, Retired Stephen Nalilungwe, GMP Duncan Warren, Retired Steven Person, Retired Robert McColl, Retired Robert Newcombe, Retired Mark Brenson, Hampshire Debra Bishop, Cheshire

ONE of the Blue Knights England V riders has just completed a 2000 mile ride around England and raise more than €2,000 for charity.

Paul Carter started his journey from GMP’s Force Headquarters and travelled to 38 other police forces to raise money for the UK COPS and Royal British Legion.

Along the way other Blue Knights riders joined Paul to show their support.

Christina Robertson, GMP Benjamin Williams, Metropolitan Owain Jones, Retired Alan Briggs, Retired Rachel Rigg, GMP

Congratulations to all the winners!

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 35

GMP Community

New memorial unveiled A memorial to fallen colleagues has been unveiled in the public reception of Force headquarters.

The memorial has been designed

by Martin Donlin a renowned glass artist who was commissioned to create a symbolic memorial.

The design is based on a symbolic image of a flower of hope

by Emma Egerton (the daughter of Ch Insp John Egerton, a budding artist who sadly died from a nut allergy in 2010).

The front of the memorial is also deep blasted with an eternal flame.

Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy wanted to ensure that with the new force headquarters a new memorial was created and after many months of design and consultation the final design has been installed.

The unveiling of the memorial also coincides with the demolition of Chester House and the recovery of the previous memorial plaques that were in the reception area of the former Force HQ.

Obituaries  Robert Colin Chippendale, 83, died Monday 11 March

 Kennith William Lancaster, 81, died Saturday 20 April

 Roderick Patterson, 84, died Sunday 2 June

 William Glynn, 90, died Tuesday 2 April

 Frank Leigh, 92, died Thursday 25 April

 Peter Michael Fitzpatrick, 66, died Tuesday 18 June

 William Byford, 95, died Tuesday 2 April

 Lawrence Lord, 74, died Tuesday 30 April

 Alan Hill, 74, died Tuesday 18 June

 John Whelan Mills, 77, died Friday 5 April

 Frederick Thomas Slavin, 82, died Tuesday 7 May

 Geoffrey Worthington, 65, died Friday 28 June

 Raymond Gee, 84, died Wednesday 10 April

 David McNamara , died Friday 17 May

 David Gordon Taylor, 63, died Friday 5 July

 Vincent Paul Fahey, 53, died Saturday 13 April

 Gerald Roberts, 84, died Wednesday 8 May

 Martin Murray, 50, died Friday 5 July

 David Butler, 77, died Saturday 13 April

 Jack Booth, 74, died Wednesday 15 May

 John Stables, 83, died Sunday 14 July

 Malcolm Matthews, 77, died Monday 15 April

 David McNamara, 62, died Friday 17 May

 Roy Williams, 80, died Tuesday 16 July

 Neil Hartley, 50, died Thursday 18 April

 Brian Howard, 82, died Wednesday 22 May

 David Brocket, 68, died Tuesday 23 July

 David Owen, 72, died Saturday 20 April

 Gilbert Johnston, 78, died Sunday 26 May

36 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

GMP Community

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Please fill in the Electronic version of the Advertisement Coupon here: www.gmp.police.uk/briefads

Although all reasonable steps have been taken to check the authenticity of advertisers, it must be stressed that acceptance for publication does not imply the acceptance All adverts must be accompanied by a copy of the of any responsibility or liability to GMP in respect of any advertiser’s warrant/ID card or pension number advertisement. Publication does not imply any Cheques should be made payable to “Greater Manchester endorsement of the companies, individuals or products.

Police” and sent to: Deadline for adverts to be submitted for the next Brief Advertising, Corporate Communications, Force HQ, edition is: Friday 30 August 2013 Northampton Road, Manchester M40 5BP. Brief Summer 2013 Edition 37

Sports & Social

Community event inspires young and old SIXTEEN teams from local schools around Hyde took part in a community cricket tournament, organised by the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

The event was part-funded using cash seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act. With hard work from the Neighbourhood team and support from the Flowery Field Cricket Club, New Charter Housing and local businesses, the event turned out to be a fun filled day for all involved, The students from the nearby sixth form college offered coaching for the children and the day was truly intergenerational with ages ranging from primary school age to 93 years.

This was a good opportunity to show the children that even though the police have to keep law and order, they are also very approachable.

Local resident Charlie Fenton was up until last year the oldest recognised umpire at 92 years of age. Charlie very kindly offered to come along and support the event,

PCSO Tony Novotny showing off his cricket skills with the children

which involved him umpiring some games and offering his wisdom to the children.

On a warm and sunny day, more than 120 children took part and all of them gave 100% throughout the tournament. The Godley and Dowson primary schools made the final, with Godley coming out as eventual winners.

All contestants received a medal and a certificate for their hard work

which was presented by Tameside’s Ch Supt Nick Adderley.

He said: “It's such a joy to take money from criminals and to put it to good causes such as this.

“It was also a privilege to meet our umpire Charlie. It just goes to show that you're never too old to make a difference.”

Basketball players wanted GMP’s basketball team are on the lookout for new experienced players for the upcoming 2013/14 season.

The team has played in both the PSUK competitions and the Manchester Arena Basketball League for a number of years with some great achievements.

The team currently trains and plays on a Tuesday from 7pm until 9pm.

Anyone who is interested in joining the team should contact Tony Smithers either via email or on extension 65127.

Fancy karate?

DC Damien McLaughlin from the Organisational Learning and Workforce Deveopment Branch is looking for new members to join his Rochdale Warriors karate club.

Damien who has been training Karate in his spare time for many years said: “The style of karate we 38 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

practice at the club is Shukokai.

Although the club is open to anyone, there are a number of members who are police officers.”

Damien is a member of the Shukokai Karate Union and was recently awarded his 8th Dan black belt at the English Institute of Sport

in Sheffield.

Anyone is interested in taking up Karate can contact Damien on 07504 858963, email info@rochdalewarriors.co.uk or visit the club website www.rochdalewarriors.co.uk

Sports & Social

Task Force goes the X’tra mile GMP is helping young people keep away from criminality and gang association.

Earlier this year, the Xcalibre Task Force (XTF) and Integrated Gang Management Unit received funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner so that they could support a number of diversionary projects.

One of the projects being supported is run by local businessman, Dave Williams from Soccer Academy, Soccer Solutions. The money is used to pay for football sessions at local sports centres and to purchase training kits for youngsters referred to the academy by the police who live in deprived areas.

After attending the Employment Event held at Manchester City Football Club in March this year, Dave said he has

Climbing to new heights IN October two staff from GMP will be taking on the Everest Basecamp challenge to raise money for a local children's charity.

Karen Broadbent from HR Branch and Cecelia Oakley, Temporary Inspector on response at Bury, will be climbing on behalf of CAFT, the Children’s Adventure 40 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

reported an increase in attendance.

Also as a result of the funding a number of the youngsters have been signed to local league football clubs such as Bolton, Rochdale FC and Chesterfield FC. Dave Williams told Brief that he is extremely thankful and appreciative to GMP and particularly to Det Ch Insp Debbie

Soccer Solutions Academy came out on top Dooley for all their support and encouragement.

Det Ch Insp Dooley said: “Dave’s

academy is not only a sporting opportunity to keep young people off the street and divert them from criminality, but it also helps the youngsters obtain an education and get some qualifications. It also helps to bring rival factions together in one place.

“The sessions take place at Stockport Academy and DCI Dooley recently went down to find out more. She added: “I was amazed that some of the boys have to catch two or three buses and walk to the venue as they live outside the Manchester area.”

It was during one of these visits that a “friendly” game was arranged between XTF and the Soccer Solutions Academy. XTF had a terrific goalkeeper who managed to keep the young ones at bay but that didn’t stop the Academy from winning two out of three games.

Farm Trust, who provide a variety of residential programmes for terminally ill, disabled and disadvantaged children from all over the North West. In addition to the mountain the team have set themselves a challenging target to raise £75k to boost the charity’s funds.

Nevis as part of a GMP fundraiser and Cecilia climbed the Atlas Mountains last year. The latter is also tackling Kilimanjaro in September to raise money for Twincess Fund, a charity set up by PC's Matt and Jodie Parry to support their twin Downs Syndrome daughters.

The pair are no strangers to walking challenges and are taking their training seriously. Both are keen fundraisers and their previous efforts have included Karen climbing Ben

To sponsor either or both of these brave walkers please go to WWW.Justgiving.com and search for Karen Broadbent or Cecelia Oakley.

Sports & Social

League final in memory of PC Gareth Francis A football match has taken place in honour of PC Gareth Francis who died following a night out in Stockport.

The match between South Manchester FC and Collyhurst FC was the final of GMP’s League but PC Francis’ colleagues turned it into a memorial match out of respect for Gareth who was scheduled to play.

The match took place at Ashton United’s ground at Hurst Cross and the final score was 3 – 0 to Collyhurst.

All match fees and subs were donated to the North West Police

Benevolent Fund and a collection took place on the evening.

PC James Greenhalgh from the South Manchester Division where Gareth was based said: “Gareth would have been playing in the final if he was still here and we want to remember him by treating the match as a memorial.

“He was a great guy and went out of his way to help out his friends and colleagues.

“Gareth never took himself too seriously and with this in mind we wore bad shirts we used to wear on

nights out and enjoyed a curry after the game in his honour.”

“We took great pleasure in attending the match which, as well as being a final, was being played to honour Gareth and we would like to thank PC James Greenhalgh and all the team for inviting us to this fitting tribute.”

Gareth's family and girlfriend congratulated the South Manchester football team for making it to the league final.

They said: “We are sure that Gareth will have been cheering the team on all the way.”

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 41

Sports & Social

When Wigan won the cup Wigan Athletic made footballing history when they beat Manchester City 1-0 to win the FA Cup at Wembley in one of the biggest final upsets the tournament has ever seen. It was the first time the club have won the cup in their 81 year history.

Wigan Ath

letic celeb rate at W embley

PC Ashle y Keyte w

ith the C

up

Celebratory parade through Wigan town centre

42 Brief Summer 2013 Edition

Sports & Social The road to Wembley….

Football liaison officer for Wigan Athletic PC Ashley Keyte was with the team every step of the way. He gives us his perspective of the team’s amazing journey….

Late Dec ‘12 - FA Cup 3rd round draw Football officers around the country await obscure and unfamiliar teams in the pot to host or visit. Man United at home? Or a potential 'banana skin' away? Last season my role took me to Swindon Town away, Wigan fell at the first hurdle.

5 Jan ‘13 - 3rd Round Bournemouth – Home It’s decided; Bournemouth at home, hardly one to capture the TV viewings, but a positive tie for favourites Wigan, My planning with the club starts here. On game day I deploy in and around the ground before offering a high-vis reassurance and to minimise any potential for disorder. A draw, this means a Tuesday night visit to the south coast for myself. It was for the hardened fan only - Wigan win.

26 Jan ‘13 - 4th Round Macclesfield – away The Moss Rose stadium was a re -visit for myself as a failed footballer, having had trials and trained with the club a short time in my younger

days! An 'old school' tie brought more than 2300 fans to the game.

stadium safely. This was made easier due to Wigan were to be in their first ever FA Cup final!

17 Feb ‘13 - 5th Round Huddersfield - away

11 May 2013 - Final Manchester City. - Wembley

The fixture brought the first sightings of mock FA Cups held aloft by supporters, actual believing Wigan could be heading to Wembley setting in!. This only increased as I monitored a 1500+ high spirited Wigan support back to the train station after a convincing victory.

Wigan fans were realistic, they were the definite underdogs and this was the opinion of most pre-match in the local pubs. The 20000+ plus support was in good spirits, no incidents pre-match caused many concerns. Pre-match I made an arrest for a breach of football banning order at the turnstiles (A Reading fan!).

As the game was heading for extra time, Wigan snatched it with four minutes remaining. As I was positioned with the supporters, it was more disbelief than excitement!

Most supporters remained for the trophy parade where even the avid supporting football secretary was on the pitch with the FA Cup aloft!

9th March ‘13 - 6th round Everton – away Another large following; Wigan had been beaten here on boxing day. There was a genuine excitement when I spoke to fans, the winners went to Wembley for the semi-final.

Half time; 0-3 to Wigan. As the second half commenced there was pockets of empty seats in the Wigan end, as I made my way down to the concourse I was met by around a hundred supporters - nervous, anxious, some not believing 3-0 was enough. More mock FA Cups came out on view.

13th April ‘13 - Semi Final Millwall - Wembley An important day for both clubs, Wigan's fans stood at 15700+ all in good voice. The result increased these voices but events in the Millwall end dampened the atmosphere post match. On a policing perspective it was a case of managing the support exiting the

Trophy parade A big occasion for the fans, a celebration after relegation. With the FA Cup squad on the bus, we made our With the FA Cup squad on the bus, we made our way to the town centre. I have to say the numbers that were present along the route to Wigan town centre exceeded expectation with more than 30,000 people turning out. The event ran well, I think even the highest profile players were impressed with the support shown.

Brief Summer 2013 Edition 43

March with Pride!

Police with Pride are celebrating their 11th year marching with the Manchester Pride parade, Manchester’s biggest annual event – and are inviting you to participate with them!

Taking place on Saturday 24 August, the parade is one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands of spectators who line the route through the city centre.

With a larger police contingent than any other similar event in the country, the Force plays an important role in Manchester Pride, highlighting to the general public their support of Manchester’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities.

The event promises to be a fantastic day out for all, and it is completely free to take part with complimentary t-shirts, food and post-parade entertainment all included. The theme for 2013 is ‘Acceptable in the 80s’ so participants are encouraged to don their legwarmers and sweatbands!

To register for the event, please e-mail gmp.pride.network@gmp.police.uk by 20 August. Colleagues, friends and family are welcome to march with you but must be registered to participate.