Police step up fight against burglars

DAMAGE at Jo Ferns’ salon, Lydgate

POLICE have launched special night patrols after a spate of incidents in which businesses were targeted by thieves.

A hair salon was raided last weekend, and several other Saddleworth firms have previously been targets.

Extra officers and a Business Watch scheme is now being launched to support firms in Saddleworth.

Currently the area has only two full-time PCs and a handful of PCSOs.

Police say there hasn’t been a rise in robberies in Saddleworth, but thieves are hitting more business premises. There have been 20 non-residential burglaries since January 1 — an increase on last year’s 14.

Superintendent Denise Worth said: “Extra officers on nights in the area ensures we obtain further intelligence to identify offenders, provide reassurance and visibility. We have also asked force resources to support divisional staff in tackling this issue.

“Officers and PCSOs in Saddleworth are working with businesses to introduce a Business Watch.

“But I truly believe the public are our eyes and ears in the community and would urge people to be vigilant and report suspicious circumstances to us.”

Superintendent Worth said GMP is currently working on a local policing project that will allow police to operate more effectively in local areas.

Targeted salon owner Jo Ferns is oganising a meeting at the White Hart, Lydgate, on Monday at 6pm for businesses and householders to discuss concerns.