Officers target drugs

CRACKDOWN . . . Sgt Neil Barker

COMMUNITY leaders are backing a plan to make a country village a zero-tolerance zone for drugs and anti-social behaviour.

Operation Sandstorm launches next Friday, November 25, across Saddleworth with an emphasis on Uppermill which is becoming a hotspot for late-night revellers.

The initiative, organised by police, is backed by Oldham Council, Pub Watch and funding from Saddleworth and Lees District Executive.

Sgt Neil Barker, who heads up the Saddleworth Policing team, warned: "There will be no drugs, no anti-social behaviour and no excuses."

Troubles

Revellers brought to police attention by landlords and management under the Pub Watch scheme could face a borough-wide drinks ban.

Councillor Adrian Alexander, chair of the district executive, said: "This initiative will make Saddleworth a wonderfully safe area to wine and dine at nights, away from the troubles blighting night spots in this country.

"A check on taxi services will also be taken into consideration. We as councillors believe in zero-tolerance from now."

Ward councillor John McCann said: "For some years now my belief is drug use has been steadily increasing in Saddleworth.

"It is known users of hard drugs do not start on them but begin by using so-called 'soft' drugs so the more that use cannabis, the more will go on to use cocaine and heroin.

"Once hard drugs become easily available as in other parts of Manchester then the problem will mushroom here. I hope the pedlars are caught and jailed."

Ward councillor Graham Sheldon, the village's former sub postmaster, said: "I'm am led to believe the use of drugs in our area, although not epidemic, are being widely used.

"This most probably is the case in many towns and villages. The attraction to Uppermill in particular is due to the variety of smart trendy venues, with many varieties of food, wines, spirits and beers available.

Support
"I encourage this success and support police and landlords in keeping each venue safe."

Councillor Pam Byrne, chair of Saddleworth Parish Council, added: "Uppermill is a lively place both during the day and evening and I am pleased that the local police are constantly active to keep the the village a safe place to be.

"The last thing we want are drug takers and dealers to disrupt the enjoyment for both residents and visitors."

The operation, which will last six weeks, will be launched from a mobile police station at Saddleworth Museum.