Extra police resources will be out and about in Oldham to provide reassurance this weekend

Greater Manchester Police have vowed to increase officer presence in Oldham town centre this weekend - the first since the final easing of lockdown restrictions yesterday (Monday).

The pandemic has brought about a huge amount of change to both the personal and professional lives of everyone, and it's been a really tough 14 months.

Licensed premises are just one part of the industry that has seen a huge impact on their business, and they've had to adapt in numerous ways to allow them to continue operating in line with the regulations.

There are over 6,000 licensed premises across Greater Manchester and breaches have been few and far between, which has been down to the hard work and dedication of the owners, managers and staff.

For this, GMP chiefs have extended a thank you to everyone within this industry for keeping up with the fast-moving changes that were required to remain safe and compliant.

Step four on the Government's roadmap will bring with it a new normality where the public still need to exercise caution. 

Premises have been advised to continue with steps to ensure the safety of the public, but we can all do our bit to help.

Below are just some of the things you can do:

Plan ahead and make sure you know how you are getting home

Drink sensibly

Be cautious around being in close proximity to people who you do not live with

Consider wearing a face covering when moving around indoors, especially if there are large crowds and on the Metrolink where it will still be a condition of carriage

Do not go out if you are required to self-isolate or if you have any Covid-19 symptoms

Read the guidance from the venue of any safety measures that are in place to protect you and others

Queue management may be implemented outside the venue to avoid congestion

Extra police resources will be out and about in town centres to provide reassurance as we return to some normality.  

GMP Superintendent Chris Hill said "This pandemic has been really tough for everyone and I understand the lifting of restrictions on Monday will bring a welcome relief to many.

"However, please remember others around you may not hold this same view.

"In-line with national guidance we are asking people to remain cautious and think of others around them as well as themselves.

"There may be large numbers of people out over the first weekend post the lifting of regulations, so it's advisable to be careful when mixing indoors with those who do not form part of your household.

"Be considerate of others and don't drink to excess.

"Our officers will be there to oversee the reopening of venues but please do your bit to help us stay out of lockdown.

"Finally thank you to everyone who has continued to help in getting us to this stage where we can start getting back to some sort of normality.

"We're extremely grateful for your cooperation and hopefully you'll be able to safely enjoy some time with friends and family."

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