Tameside police investigate surge in firework-related ASB

POLICE in Tameside have reported an increase in firework-related anti-social behaviour involving children this year.

Officers say they are continuing to investigate the incidents which occurred over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period and involved youths between the ages of 10 and 14.

“Our Neighbourhood Policing Team are investigating these issues and continue to follow up a number of lines of enquiry in order to investigate fully and bring those responsible to justice,” said Inspector Lisa Halsall.

The Correspondent has previously reported that police officers and firefighters had fireworks and stones thrown at them whilst trying to do their jobs over a relentless Bonfire Night weekend.

Police officers with Adrian Dunbar in Ashton

Greater Manchester Police’s Tameside North Neighbourhood Policing Team thanked members of the public who celebrated responsibly but highlighted the actions of a small minority can have a severe impact on vulnerable people.

“We want the public to be mindful that irresponsible and anti-social behaviour can cause fear to our most vulnerable residents,” Inspector Halsall explained.

“We urge the public to keep reporting any ASB issues in your area to us, we do act on intelligence.

“We want to make people who live and work in our communities feel safer and, as we are spending more time listening, we know the things that matter most and our officers are placed in the heart of your community and are relentless in the pursuit of criminals to keep you and your neighbourhood safe from crime.”

Police say officers will continue to conduct “highly visible patrols across our community over the coming days, weeks and months” to ensure people’s safety as other celebrations take place through the darker months.

Visits to stores in the area will also continue following Bonfire Night to check if fireworks are being sold and the premises have the relevant registrations or licences are up to date.

Anyone who has any concerns about crime can call GMP’s Tameside team on 0161 856 0733 or 101. Alternatively, reports can be submitted anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

While officers were on patrol over the Halloween and Bonfire Night, they spotted a familiar face – namely actor Adrian Dunbar, who is best known for playing Superintendent Ted Hastings in the BBC series Line of Duty.

Adrian has been in Tameside and the surrounding areas filming the next series of ITV police procedural drama Ridley, in which he plays former detective inspector turned consultant Alex Ridley.