Day of Action delivers results across Ashton

Arrests, vehicle seizures, road safety enforcement and business compliance checks were among the outcomes of a successful multi-agency day of action in Ashton.

Tameside Council officers joined Greater Manchester Police and partner agencies for the operation, which took place on Thursday 15 October, to deliver visible enforcement activity, crime prevention advice and targeted operations to tackle issues that matter most to local communities.

The day brought together around 40 Special Constables from across Greater Manchester, supported by neighbourhood policing teams, traffic officers and a range of partner organisations including Tameside Council's Environmental Health, Trading Standards, Licensing and Community Safety teams.

The coordinated operation focused on tackling retail crime, anti-social behaviour, road safety and environmental offences, while also providing reassurance to residents and businesses through a highly visible presence in the town centre.

The operation included visits to businesses selling age-restricted products, including fireworks, knives and vapes, with officers providing advice and guidance on their legal responsibilities and the importance of robust age-verification procedures.

A roadside traffic operation also took place, with Licensing Officers checking taxi and private -hire vehicles and partners carrying out vehicle safety inspections.

A total of 18 licensed vehicles were checked, with the majority found to be compliant. One vehicle was reported to its licensing authority due to its condition, while another was seized by police after being found to be operating without the appropriate licence and insurance.

The council’s Community Safety team were also on hand at a dedicated information stand in Ashton Market Hall, offering advice, support and information on a range of community safety issues.

Increased patrols took place throughout the town centre, with teams engaging with residents, providing crime prevention advice and offering support where needed.

The day brought extra police resources into the town to support ongoing work that takes place every to make local communities safer. It also highlighted the valuable contribution made by Special Constables, who volunteer their time to support policing across Greater Manchester while holding the same powers as regular police officers.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity, Cllr Stephen Homer, who is responsible for community safety, said: "Days of Action like this are an important opportunity for partners to come together and tackle issues that affect our communities. By working closely with Greater Manchester Police and partner organisations, we can support local businesses, improve safety on our roads and provide reassurance to residents and visitors.

"The range of activity carried out across Ashton town centre shows our shared commitment to keeping people safe and addressing concerns within our communities. I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and continued dedication throughout the year."
The day forms part of ongoing partnership work across Tameside to create safer neighbourhoods, support local businesses and improve the quality of life for residents.