Police chief in call for vigilance

Chief Supt Caroline Ball

A MEMBER of Homewatch supported a police chief when she urged Saddleworth villagers to be vigilant helping to prevent crime.

Chief Supt Caroline Ball, the commander of Oldham, Stockport and Tameside divisions, was speaking to more than 50 residents at an open meeting last night.

She said Saddleworth had two full-time PCs and nine PCSOs but the staffing position of the force is under further review.

Officers still parade at Saddleworth police station on Uppermill High Street but over recent years the Greater Manchester force had lost thousands of officers.

Speaking at Uppermill Conservative Club, she declared: “Our new chief constable is trying to keep as much as we can on the front line.

“Another review of resources is under way across the force. Hopefully, Oldham’s new shift patterns which are being examined will work for villagers of Saddleworth.”

And she added: “We have strong partnerships with other agencies and are working on integrated intelligence resources. However, we would urge everyone to be vigilant all the time.”

She told the audience, some representing village community groups, that proceeds from crime are invested back into the community.

Saddleworth Homewatch chair, Royce Franklin, said:”Everyone must be vigilant. We are all responsible for helping to prevent crime.”

Neighbourhood PC Jonny Marsden urged householders to take extra care in the lead up to Christmas.

In the wake of a spate of bicycle thefts from sheds he advised: “All Christmas presents should be locked up out of sight.

“And people should be very careful when they are out shopping.”