Robocop image ‘is wrong for villages’

WRONG uniform image? Insp Danny Milovanovic, with some of his officers and PCSOs in Delph

Smart tunic, collar and tie is more in keeping, says councillor

POLICE robocop-style uniforms could damage their relationships with communities, a parish councillor has claimed.

Officers and PCSOs from Greater Manchester Police spent a profile-raising week in Delph working with villagers and other agencies to highlight home safety and other crime-busting issues.

But Ken Hulme, who lives in the village and is a member of Saddleworth Parish Council, is concerned about body armour and combat-style uniforms worn by officers.

He said: “Saddleworth villages are not urban war zones.

“I would love to see smartly dressed constables on duty with tunics and collars and ties. I think it would make the police more accessible to many locals.”

This week, as part of their “village a month” scheme, Saddleworth and Lees neighbourhood policing team launches a series of activities in Grotton.

Councillor Hulme stressed he welcomed the police initiatives. “I am really pleased at their efforts to get out and about and meet the local community,” he said.

“But, like many others, I have been worried about the robocop image police have adopted lately with body armour and combat uniforms.

“No one in their right minds believes a ‘Dixon of Dock Green’ approach to drunken yobs out for a fight is appropriate. In those circumstances, police should have the protection they need.

“But when they are attending village events they represent something more than just physical force.

“I believe the old uniform helped reinforce this role and image in the community.

“I think older residents would prefer to see officers in proper uniforms.”

Regarding the newly-launched village initiatives Councillor Hulme said: “They will help to get us back to the bobby on the beat approach most of us want to see.

“It is so important people get to know their local police officers and develop a relationship of trust with them.”

GMP’s Oldham boss, Chief Supt Caroline Ball, said: “The new uniform was introduced across GMP in June following a successful trial last year. We have had positive feedback from officers who say the uniform is more comfortable and fit-for-purpose. An officer’s job is sometimes difficult so it’s key they are equipped to carry out the their role to the best of their ability.

“The new uniform definitely allows them do this and reflects modern-day policing. Officers have also had positive feedback from the communities they patrol, with members of the public supportive of the move to a more modern uniform.”

This week in Grotton, officers are providing a free marking service for mobile phones, pedal cycles and anti-tamper proof screw fitting for number plates.

In addition, the police off-road bike team will be visiting the village and there will be children’s activities and an opportunity to see the GMP museum and archives.

Representatives of the fire service, Home Watch, Age Concern, Oldham Council and the Energy Saving Trust will be offering advice and support.

Main focus for the event will be concentrated midweek at the Grotton Pavilion, near the Grotton Hotel, Station Road.

Inspector Danny Milovanovic, who heads GMP’s Saddleworth and Lees policing team, said: “The event is a showcase and after our success in Delph, we are hopeful of good support in Grotton.”

The event takes place between 10am-3pm until Friday.