Brief February 2016

Keeping order An insight into Public Order Training Ghosts from the archives The faces of crime 100 years ago Vision for the Force Target Operating Model explained

Columns

Working towards the Target Operating Model YOU will hear more and more being talked about the Target Operating Model (TOM) for GMP in the coming weeks and months.

A few weeks ago we discussed with senior leaders the future of policing and the way things will work across the organisation.

It is important that we provide this clarity so that you can understand your role in contributing to this. This is information that will be cascaded to you in the coming months.

The TOM may sound complicated but it is simply how we will keep focused on keeping people safe despite the challenges we face.

It has been developed with your support and builds on previous activity. There is more detail about the TOM within this edition of Brief (p13).

The changes through the local policing review will be supporting our move to focus on ‘place’ and working in an integrated way with partners.

The local policing developments are just part of the activity within the target operating model and other developments include the mobile rollout, the staff engagement survey which are all featured in the following pages.

I am also pleased that we have been able to open police officer

recruitment for the first time in five years.

The recruitment of trained officers is the first part of our drive which will maintain current staffing levels.

If you know someone who has completed their two year probationary period they can apply by contacting recruitmentservices@gmp.police.uk.

We will quickly move to opening the recruitment process to internal candidates.

Ian Hopkins Chief Constable

Continuing to improve victim services SINCE April 2014 I’ve been responsible for commissioning victims’ services.

My office has been working closely with Greater Manchester Police, Victim Support and other partner agencies within the criminal justice system, leading the way to identify those areas where we can provide better support to victims and witnesses.

Already I am hearing good things from the victims’ services pilot operating in Manchester, which has brought GMP officers and Victim Support together under one roof to better support victims and deal with referrals. Both parties are learning from each other and sharing information to provide an improved service, able to update victims on both investigative and criminal proceedings, as well as signpost them onto services able to provide emotional support, if needed.

Providing victims with a single

point of contact, keeping them up to date, and supporting them throughout court proceedings and beyond, is vital if we are to provide a criminal justice system fit for purpose, with victims at its heart.

As Mayor and PCC, I am in a unique position to bring partner agencies together to help improve the outlook for policing in Greater Manchester, working closely with local authorities, health, and the community/voluntary sector to find ways to keep people safe and reduce demand on policing.

I believe we can make similar inroads within the wider Criminal Justice System (CJS). By bringing together police, CJS partner agencies and support services together, we can really transform the victims’ journey for the better. And, with devolution on the horizon, we have the potential to find local solutions for local people; sharing our capabilities and targeting resources according to local needs and local challenges.

Tony Lloyd Greater Manchester Mayor and PCC

2

9 Holocaust Memorial Day and

4 Around the World & Local Policing

10 Mobile Roll-out &

Review

Engagement Survey

5 News in Brief 6-7 Divisional Roundup 8 What’s Trending

11 Cultural awareness &

Mobile Roll-out See Page 10

With thanks to the following people for their contribution to this issue:

Hate Crime Awareness Week

 

Community Review Panels

12 Recruitment & Airwave replacement news

Spotlight 14 Target Operating Model 15 Public Order Training

16 Faces of crimes past

GMP Life 17 What’s on 18 Adverts & Obituaries 19 Letters of Appreciation 20 German Shepherd &



DCI Debbie Dooley PS David Penney

Be published in Brief Editorial team: Melissa Mead, Alison Etherden and Krystyna Rudzki Photographers: Chris Oldham and Bill Morris 0161 856 2777 | Picture Desk: Lisa Marks 0161 856 2279 Designed and produced by: Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, Central Park, M40 5BP Contact numbers: 0161 85 65938 / 2238 / 5939

Novels

Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk

21 Life after GMP & Cadet

Brief online: www.gmp.police.uk/Brief

News

22 Specials Weight Loss & The Chief Constable set out his policing philosophy to senior leaders across the Force in a series of communication events. See Page 13

PC Mark Jones

Social Media Apprentice Kieanna Jackson 

Mugshots from the Museum Archive.

See Page 15

Cross Country Championships

News

News

Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by

Friday 25 March 3

News

Around the world USA: A police officer got more than he bargained for when attending a job at the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society in Florida. Officer Montgomery had been called out to the shelter to deal with threats from an ex-employee but while there, staff brought him a puppy which had been found on the shelter’s doorstep after enduring a night of freezing temperatures, before being found in the morning.

The officer held the puppy which immediately curled up in his arms.

Needless to say the dog, now named Kylo, went home with the police officer and lives happily with his new family including his canine brother Vader.

ECUADOR: In Quevedo, traffic was brought to a stop due to a sloth that was seen clinging to a motorway crash barrier. The police attended but the animal refused to let go of his post.

Government organisation Comisión de Tránsito del Ecuador came to the rescue and saved the sloth from the

motorway.

The sloth, which is native to the jungles of Central and South America, was checked over by a veterinarian who confirmed it was in perfect condition and could be returned to its natural habitat.

USA: A Washington man is being held on remand after a bizarre episode that started in the library and eventually ended with his arrest.

Beezow Doo-doo Zopittybop-bop-bop, who legally changed his name from Jeffrey Drew, was charged with two counts of first degree assault, thirddegree assault, third-degree malicious mischief and malicious harassment. Mr Zopittybop-bop-bop was spotted by police officers ripping fliers inside a library. After officers tried to apprehend him, Mr Zopittybop -bop-bop allegedly bit an officer and then fled the scene before throwing a heavy brick at another officer.

LPR gets the green light THE proposed changes from the local policing review (LPR) that has been piloted at Salford for the last six months is set to be rolled out.

Approval was given by Chief Officers in January and changes based on the LPR will be implemented in several phases from April 2016. The roll out of mobile devices will also be phased in after divisions have gone live.

ACC Garry Shewan said: “By better aligning our teams to meet the demand and needs of our communities, these changes will enable us to deliver the best possible service whilst working to reduce demand by listening to the public and problem solving.

“Crucially, it will protect neighbourhood policing, giving local teams more problem-solving capacity to

deal with the issues that affect their communities, helping to tackle the underlying social and environmental factors which lie at the heart of crime and offending.”

The new model will see the roles of the Prisoner Processing Unit (PPU), Response and Neighbourhood Police Officers merge into a new Neighbourhood Police Officer (NPO) role. They will adopt the Officer in the Case (OIC) model and will be geographically aligned to Neighbourhood Beat Officers (NBOs) and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) with the same line management.

For more information please contact your local LPR implementation team.

Insp Steve Dean led the Local Policing Review pilot team in Salford

4





A pilot Victim Assessment and Referral Unit has been established at West Didsbury police station, operating between 25 Jan 2016 and 5 March 2016. Staffed by three GMP officers and three Victim Support staff, the unit receives all victim referrals from the A and E Divisions, rather than these referrals going directly to Victim Support. There is a focus on helping the victims to help themselves, offering practical advice and support over the phone, and where appropriate, conducting a needs assessment and referring the victim to an appropriate local agency for longer term support.

Chief Inspector Dave Gilbride is seconded to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s (OPCC) Victims Service team. He said: “The pilot is a fantastic opportunity to speak with victims and understand what they want. Police and other agencies can all too often assume or direct what support a victim needs, resulting in unnecessary referrals, and failing to identify root causes of victimisation or wider complex issues.

It is the responsibility of the officer who speaks with the victim to explain the service available, and obtain consent if the victim wishes to be referred.”

A new exhibition at the British Muslim

Heritage Centre in Whalley Range was launched in January. ‘Stories of Sacrifice’ is dedicated to the bravery of hundreds of thousands of Muslim soldiers who fought for Britain in World War One. From recruitment to burial, the exhibition developed by the British Muslim Heritage Centre (BMHC) and part funded by the Community Covenant, gives an insight into the selfless sacrifice of Muslim soldiers, who valiantly fought for the freedoms and privileges that we take for granted in Great Britain today.

The launch event was attended by a range of Greater Manchester dignitaries, including Lord Lieutenant Warren Smith. GMP was represented

by CC Ian Hopkins, PCC Tony Lloyd and a number of officers and staff. For more information please click here.



GREATER Manchester council leaders and local communities approved proposals for a 10p increase in council tax to be put towards policing. This will mean an additional £3.5m in the budget – the equivalent of 70 police officers.

Three hundred residents responded to the consultation for the 10p-per-week increase. Of those, 78 per cent agreed with the proposal put forward by Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd.

WHEN it comes to serious crime investigations, GMP’s Cold Case Unit (CCU) is the tortoise to the Major Investigation Team’s hare.

Time is not of the essence for Martin Bottomley and his team, but that makes their job no less important than the Syndicates that occupy other floors of Nexus House.

Not only are they continuing the fight to bring serious offenders to justice, but the message from CCU to victims and offenders is clear: “It does not matter how much time has passed, we have not given up.”

The successful conviction of serial rapist Henry William Drennan - 32 years after he broke into the house of a 29-year-old woman and raped her at knifepoint – is the latest reminder of the CCU’s incredible perseverance.

The original investigation begun in 1984, when officers failed to identify an offender who broke into a young family’s house after the husband had gone to work, and raped the mother in her bed while their young child slept in the next room.

Forensic technology did not allow officers to successfully identify the offender at the time, but samples taken in 1984 would prove invaluable to the CCU’s Detective Constable Michaela Clinch when she re-opened the investigation in 2009.

It was early in 2015, upon the introduction of the latest generation of DNA profiling methodologies (DNA-17), when Michaela finally had the opportunity to crack the three decadeold investigation.

The technology allowed a DNA profile to be developed which matched that of a known offender who had his details recorded on the DNA database.

That match was Henry William Drennan, who was subsequently jailed for 10 years at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday 2 February 2016.

The case deservedly received widespread media attention, not only in local media but also nationally, securing a front page on the Scottish Sun and coverage in a number of other national newspapers in England.

Rightly so, as it is not every day that you manage to solve a threedecade old rape investigation, and the CCU’s success was not only a shot in the arm for the force’s public reputation but sent another valuable message to both victims and offenders that GMP will never give up on justice.

5

News

Case closed three decades later

Divisional News

Divisional Roundup Salford THROUGHOUT February, six people were arrested in Spain after a series of violent incidents between organised crime groups in Salford. The Spanish National Police, with support from GMP and the National Crime Agency launched dawn raids and arrested five men and a woman in Marbella, Costa Del Sol. Two properties were raided as part of the operation. Officers recovered a loaded hand gun, ammunition and four knives from the properties during the warrants.

Bury

Wigan A video highlighting the good work of a partnership project in Wigan is due to be shared shortly.

The project is based in the Platt Bridge community and has a group of professionals from different organisations working together to support the residents.

Rochdale A man arrested by the Rochdale Sunrise team has been sentenced to three years in prison and indefinite registration on the sex offenders register, for attempted child sexual exploitation. Ryan Howley pleaded guilty to inciting a child to commit sexual activity and attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming at an earlier hearing. The Sunrise team falls part of Project Phoenix, a multi-agency response to CSE across the whole of Greater Manchester.

A popular community member had his musical equipment stolen whilst entering his house with his guide dog.

Officers recovered some of the property and made two arrests for theft and handling.

Money is being raised for him to be donated to a guide dogs charity and to buy him replacement equipment.

Oldham A retired Oldham inspector was named in the Queen's New Year's honours list, receiving The Queen's Police Medal for Distinguished Service. Alan Humphries served in the Force for 30 years.

North Manchester NORTH Manchester is the first division in the Force to implement a direct video link between themselves and the Courts. This is beneficial for all officers across the Force as applications for warrants no longer require wet signatures. Authorisation by the inspector and magistrate is

6

provided electronically which makes the process efficient and secure.

The new system saves at least one and a half hours of officer time per application and sees significant logistical benefits for the court. North Manchester are now starting to use the process for officers giving

evidence. The first trial saw two officers being able to attend to their usual business whilst waiting to give evidence. Their evidence was agreed in the afternoon, had they been at court in person they would have been non-productive for the entire day.

Salford

DRUG dealer William Black has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Throughout February, six Blackhave masqueraded as ain people been arrested property developer, this Spain after a series but of violent lifestyle was funded by his drugs incidents between organised criminal enterprise, of which crime groups in Salford.

Thehe was the head.

Spanish National Police, with An investigation found support from GMP and thethat William Black was a prominent National Crime Agency member an Organised launchedofdawn raids and Crime Group (OCG) and had arrested five men and built a woman himself a property portfolio over in Marbella, Costa Del Sol. of Two £2,000,000 by providing properties were raided asfalse part of details on mortgage applications, the operation, officers recovered registering the properties in other a loaded hand gun, ammunition people’s names and obtaining and four knives from the deposits from other properties during themembers warrants.of the OCG, On Friday 8 January 2016 Black was found guilty of four counts of fraud, two counts of conspiracy to commit fraud, one count of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, one count of conspiracy to supply Class B drugs, one count of money laundering for drugs, fraud and criminal property, and one count of money laundering for tax evasion.

Bolton CHIEF Inspector Carol Martin has recently developed a Neighbourhood Justice Panel Scheme in partnership with Bolton University.

A man arrested by the The initiative has been set up to Rochdale Sunrise team has provide psychology students training been sentenced to three years so they will be able to facilitate in prison and indefinite community restorative conferences for registration on the sex offenders incidents of low level crime, anti-social register, for attempted child sexual exploitation. Ryan Howley pleaded guilty to inciting a child to commit sexual activity and attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming at an earlier hearing. The Sunrise team falls part of Project Phoenix, a multi-agency response to CSE across the whole of Greater Manchester.

Rochdale

Members of the Bolton Neighbourhood Justice Panel

Bury

Wigan Stockport A video members highlighting SEVEN of the an good work of a partnership in organised crime gang project have been Wigan is due to be shared shortly. sentenced for their various roles The project basedhome in the Platt in a string of isviolent Bridge community and has a invasions and assaults, during group of professionals from which homeowners were either different organisations working threatened or attacked with together to support the weapons. They targetedresidents. those

behaviour and neighbour disputes.

The aim of the scheme is to reduce demand on public services and to promote a restorative approach to dealing with community issues and offer real life learning opportunities for the students which could support their future career development.

who they believed were responsible for growing cannabis so they could steal the drugs known as 'taxing' among criminals - although in these instances they hit the homes of innocent members of the community due to cases of mistaken identity.

Thanks to an investigation by officers attached to Operation Ardenne the gang have been sentenced to more than 28 years in prison.

A popular member of Bury Community had his musical equipment stolen whilst entering his house with his guide dog.

Officers recovered some of the property and made two arrests for theft and handling. Money raised is to be donated to a guide dogs charity and used to buy replacement equipment.

Oldham

North Manchester South Manchester North Manchester is the first the process efficient and secure.

SOUTH Manchester and North Manchester officers are using their recently division in the Force to implement a The new system at least one acquired skills around mentoring to support colleagues divisionsaves wide with a City direct video link between themselves and half hours of officer time per of Manchester (COM) mentoring scheme. and the Courts. This is beneficial for application and sees significant The mentor scheme will enable all officers and staff to develop personally and all officers across the force as logistical benefits for the court. North professionally. It will allow them to maximise their potential through voluntary applications for warrants no longer Manchester are now starting to use relationships formed within a safe committed environment. The scheme will also require wet signatures, authorisation the process for officers giving be beneficial with helping candidates applying for promotion in 2016. by the inspector and magistrate is evidence, the first trial saw two provided electronically which makes officers being able to attend to their

Divisional News Divisional News

Tameside

Trafford

usual business whilst to give AN open daywaiting has been held to evidence; their evidence was agreed return property to the victims of in the crime. afternoon, beenofata Afterhad the they success court in personopen they day, wouldofficers have been previous held a non-productive for the entire day. second event in February to give people the chance to reclaim their belongings.

77

What’s Trending?

@GMPFallowfield had an interesting encounter with a non-venomous Californian King Snake in Alexandra Park on February 9.

Social media praise @tasfun (TheAnthonySeddonFund) Police always treated by late son with respect and understanding. Thank you #mentalillness #Tameside @ljhenshall (Lew Henshall) I’m grateful to you for facilitating the many protests that take place in Manchester and helping people feel safe. @CarrMillite (Anne_S) Just out walking the dog and saw two of @gmpolice finest calmly stop a man trying to jump off a motorway bridge, no drama, great policing @Rosiefbirkett (Rosie Birkett) Massive thanks to @gmpolice for finding our missing friend last night. Incredible service and amazing quick response! Heroes!

GMP’s top social media accounts Most engaged accounts from November 1, 2015—January 31, 2016 GMP Wigan East GMP Manchester North GMP Salford West GMP Heywood and Middleton GMP Stockport North @GMPCity Centre @GMPLeigh @GMPRadcliffe @GMPWhitefield @GMPStretford The Social Media Evaluation available on the intranet from Thursday 25 February

The letter, from Sgt Gary Foster, reads: “Dear Louie, Thank you for your letter.

The Greater Manchester Police works as one big team and we work together to make everybody safe and to help catch naughty people. It’s my job to make sure all the jobs get done, I do lots of writing and work on my computer to check lots and lots of information.

Best wishes, Gary

This was posted on February 17 at 9.29pm. A day later, it had been shared more than 800 times and reached more than 150,000 people. As well as increasing awareness of the work of dray horses.

GMP marked Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January by bringing faith leaders from across the region together to pay tribute to those who lost their lives.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins joined Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd, Tania Nelson from the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, Elinor Chohan from Remembering Srebrenica and Rabbi Daniel Walker for a lunch at Force Headquarters, where they read stories of victims of the Holocaust and discussed how communities in Manchester can fight against the discrimination that resulted in the genocide.

The 27 of January marked the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp to ever exist.

CC Ian Hopkins said: “This memorial day signifies the date that people were given back their freedom after years of persecution for simply being themselves and this is

something for us all to take note of.

“Here in Greater Manchester we take great pride in our diverse communities and enjoy celebrating our differences and the strength that this gives us as a region.

“This is a day to remember those who lost their lives during the atrocities of the Holocaust and those who continue to fight to survive genocides overseas. It is also an opportunity for us to take heed of history’s mistakes, to tackle discrimination and hate crime in any form and challenge anyone who persecutes another for being who they are.

“As we did last year with our #westandtogether campaign, I want to encourage people to come together, unite and ‘stand together’.”

As well as holding the memorial, GMP attended a Manchester City Council event at HOME Mcr that saw a screening of educational films for schoolchildren.

Faith leaders across Greater Manchester joined GMP to remember the Holocaust

Putting a stop to hate crime THE Force welcomed this year’s Oldham and engagement events for Hate Crime Awareness Week on 8 our communities across the region.

February, working with victims and A brand new transgender hate support groups across Greater crime report was also released to help Manchester to increase understanding shape services in the years to come. of hate crime.

The report, which was created in The week began with a launch conjunction with the GMP Pride event at Manchester Art Gallery. This Network and Transforum Manchester, event was alongside Manchester City addresses the fact that transphobic Council and Greater Manchester’s related incidents are the most Police and Crime Commissioner’s unreported of all hate crimes. It goes Office with support from Adrian on to make recommendations on how Derbyshire, a former international to increase reporting from within the wheelchair fencer who has trans community. represented his country.

Staff were also given some extra Alongside the council, GMP internal training with a showing of launched this year’s hate crime BBC documentary The Ugly Face of strategy, setting out priorities for Disability Hate Crime with an tackling the issue over the next three introduction from Chief years. Proposals in the strategy Superintendent Wasim Chaudhry and include working to increase the a question and answer session. reporting of hate crime, contributing towards a Greater Manchester wide review of third party reporting centres where victims can report incidents in neutral settings, and working with the Crown Prosecution Service to support victims.

Divisions held local events with the launch of (L-R) Allan Donoghue, Fiona Worrell, Adrian Derbyshire, Claire Lindley, DPCC Jim Battle and Ch Supt Wasim two new reporting centres in Chaudhry

News

Never forgotten

News

Force Engagement Survey Making GMP a better place to work WHILST some of the external changes that impact on the way we police cannot be controlled, GMP recognises that its workforce is key to delivering a good service to the public and staff development and wellbeing is something that can be changed.

It is important that we are continually listening to staff of all levels to fully understand what it is currently like to work here and identify areas for improvement. This is where you come in.

All officers and staff will shortly be invited to complete the Force Engagement Survey.

This has already been successfully used in other forces in England, and is specifically designed for policing and the unique challenges we face.

Ch Supt Zoe Sheard, the Force lead for the Engagement Survey, said: “I want to be clear that this is not ‘just another survey’.

We know from other forces who have already used this that using the expertise of professors at Durham University will provide the Force with a clear picture of where we are now, and what we need to do to make GMP a better place to work.

“We’ll also have the opportunity to

identify differences and similarities with other forces to share good practice.

“Surveys provide the foundation for culture change, and much of the current work underway has come directly out of previous staff surveys.”

“I would urge everyone in the organisation, no matter what role you perform, to complete this survey.

“The more people that participate, the more accurate and useful the analysis will be to help us make improvements where needed – ensuring that our people are at the heart of the decisions we make.”

The survey will be issued in two parts – the first section will be sent out via Forcewide email in March 2016, followed by a shorter survey in April.

The responses will be collated and analysed by the academic team at Durham University, and the findings and proposals will be shared in summer 2016.

The survey assures your anonymity, however in order to track responses over time each submission generates a unique reference number.

For more information about the Force Engagement Survey, click here.

Mobile Roll-Out

AFTER the recent announcement that mobile technology will be delivered across the Force in 2016 to operational officers and staff, Brief caught up with PC Mark Jones from Wigan, who is one of the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) working on the IS Transformation Programme: “This year is going to be an exciting one for cops across GMP, with the roll out of mobile devices kicking off in Salford from March/April and hitting all the other divisions and branches by December 2016. Mobile will give us access to information to make informed decisions on the go, transforming how we work.

“For example, whilst out and about we will be able to create, search and update crimes, incidents and missing persons,

take electronic witness statements and access PNC, plus lots of other useful actions that normally take some time and often require us to head back to the station.

“I’ve been with the Force for over seven years and this is one of the biggest technology developments I’ve experienced. I’ve seen first-hand the functionality of devices and it will certainly help officers better serve our communities, giving them information at their fingertips.”

For more information visit the IS Transformation Intranet Site or email ISTransformation.Programme@gmp.polic e.uk

From L-R Chief Supt Russ Jackson, Supt Peter Jackson, DCI Richard Eales, DCI Danny Inglis, DCI Debbie Dooley, Supt Rob Priddy, Supt Phil Reade, Supt Julian Richardson, PC Charles Crichlow and speaker Duwayne Brookes

(IAGs) on division, which see people from different backgrounds coming together with police to discuss and tackle local issues.

The Neighbourhoods, Confidence REPRESENTATIVES from different and Equalities (NEC) Branch established communities have been invited to share that whilst GMP is good at involving local their thoughts on key business areas citizens in specific neighbourhoods and within GMP in a series of innovative panel boroughs, we have not had the exercises. opportunity to develop links with outside Community Review Panels (CRP) communities for our central functions. The were introduced in 2016 following the first two branches to run the panels were success of Independent Advisory Groups the NCE branch and Corporate

Community Review Panels

Communications.

The events have been well attended, with a wide range of faiths and communities represented.

Specialists from other external organisations have also been invited to give their professional opinion. Each panel begins with a presentation delivered by the branch head outlining the work of their area. The group is then invited to share their ideas around specific questions or challenges that face the branch.

Digital Manager (Acting) Rob

faced when initial interactions with the family went badly wrong. Looking Forcewide, the Senior Investigating Officer struggled to find a FLO from a BME background to support the family and sought help from the Black and Asian Police Association (BAPA) to recover the situation.

The second case explored the difficulties in effectively operating in a covert environment, without crucial advice and guidance from staff who understand different groups.

Feedback has been very positive for the event, which over 100 officers and staff attended.

Chief Supt Russ Jackson said, “In light of some of the more recent cases discussed today, this was a timely reminder that the learning from the Lawrence Enquiry should not be forgotten”.

Birkett attended the CRP for Corporate Communications. He said: “It was actually very useful to have the chance to speak to members of the public about our campaigns and the way we can work better to get messages to different communities. We have taken a lot of good ideas from the session, and hopefully we will be able to feed back some of the suggestions we will take up to those who attended .”

The CRPs are likely to be rolled out across other branches throughout 2016.

News

Diversity matters

THE Serious Crime Division held an event in February to raise staff awareness regarding the importance of diversity and its link to operational capability, legitimacy and operational effectiveness.

Speaking at the event was the College of Policing lead for diversity, Supt Rob Priddy and Duwayne Brookes, the friend of Stephen Lawrence.

Duwayne outlined the horrific events and aftermath of the murder of Stephen and how racism and bias affected him and the investigation. The impact and learning from this case was explored, which came from the subsequent review, such as first aid training for officers and the introduction of Family Liaison Officers (FLOs).

Two GMP cases were then presented, which highlighted why diversity matters. The first case looked at the difficulties an investigation team

News

Job opportunities for transferees

GMP has started the first major recruitment drive for five years starting with an appeal for existing officers to join at the exciting time with new opportunities within the Force.

As part of the work to transform policing to ensure we provide an excellent service we need some specific skills and fresh thinking to tackle the changing nature of crime but also to make sure the Force is reflective of our communities.

The move maintains the current number of officers and will soon be followed with a second phase of internal recruitment from among existing GMP staff and volunteers.

Airwave to be replaced

by Emergency Services Network THE current radio network Airwave is set to be replaced by a new communication system under a new programme launched by the Home Office.

The Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme (ESMCP) will see the next generation communication system for the three emergency services (police, fire and rescue and ambulance) as well as other public safety users.

This system will be called the Emergency Services Network (ESN), and will replace the current Airwave radio system.

GMP is working collaboratively with the other North West Region Forces (Merseyside, Cheshire, Lancashire and Cumbria) to roll out the ESN and it is currently envisaged this will happen in late 2017.

ESN will be a mobile 4G communications network with

extensive coverage, high resilience, appropriate security and public safety functionality.

This will allow users to communicate even under the most challenging circumstances.

EE have been awarded the contract to provide the national mobile network for ESN. A review of GMP’s operational communications requirements is currently taking place and a series of briefings and workshops are being held with radio users and other stakeholders.

The review will take into consideration other major IS programmes being introduced across the Force such as mobile technology.

Updates will be shared as the programme develops.

In the meantime if you have any questions or would like to get involved in one of the workshops, please email ESNGMP@gmp.police.uk

IN February, Social Media apprentice Kieanna Jackson spent a day with the Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit assisting with their Twitter account. She shared her experience with Brief.

Being a traffic officer for a day has to be one of the best things I have ever experienced, from going through traffic at high speeds and even to the slower hours where not much happened, every single minute was exciting.

The second incident we were called

to was one we witnessed at 2:15pm, when a driver of a minivan overtook a lorry whilst another lorry was oncoming.

We had video footage of the driver’s actions, which we showed the driver after we pulled him over. The driver was let off with a warning.

At 4:40pm we got a call for our first road traffic collision of the day. The incident involved a Ford and a people carrier, which was carrying a sevenmonth pregnant female driver who was treated for shock; thankfully the baby was declared fine. The offending driver of the Ford had no insurance or drivers licence, so the car was seized.

One of the main things I learnt from the day was that no matter what the offence is, everyone deals with it differently and there were two perfect examples of this. The first one was when I witnessed a driver wearing no seatbelt at 3:35pm - the offender was apologetic but as soon as the officer asked for a background check, he started to get aggressive because the records revealed that he was a previous offender for assaulting a police officer the outcome was a fine.

In contrast, the final incident I attended which was a road

Mystery of Mr X is solved AN anonymous man who helped save a woman’s life has come forward after a Facebook appeal to find him.

A suicidal woman had climbed over the railings on the Arch Bridge in Hulme, threatening to jump. Along with PC Gareth Edwards, a member of the public stepped up to help - putting his own life at risk in the process. The man, known only as Sam, climbed the railings and with help from PC Edwards, held on to the woman before she was brought to safety by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Sam left the scene without leaving any contact details.

Insp Middleton from South Manchester division wanted to formally recognise Sam’s actions so took to Facebook to launch an appeal to find ‘Mr X’.

After the Facebook post was liked and shared over 90 times, Mr X came forward identifying himself as Sam Hairsine, the Musical Director of the traffic collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian - the victim was a woman in her early 30s and suffered minor injuries.

The offending driver was shaken up but remained calm. The outcome was that the offending driver was given the opportunity to attend a driver’s awareness course.

News

A day in the life of... a traffic officer

Royal Marines Band Service. Sam will now receive a Chief Constable’s Commendation for Bravery at an awards ceremony on 19 April 2016.

Insp Middleton said: “Particular credit is due for the considerable bravery shown by Captain Hairsine in climbing over the railing and by PC Gareth Edwards who subsequently climbed over to assist. I genuinely believe the woman was going to jump and that through their actions they saved her from death or serious injury.”

It just goes to show how different people handle different situations, a minor offence for not wearing a seatbelt led to the offender becoming aggressive towards the officer and a major offence, whereas a road traffic collision that was dealt with in a much calmer manner resulted in a more positive outcome.

13

Spotlight

The future of policing THE future of policing in Greater Manchester has been unveiled. CC Ian Hopkins outlined the Target Operating Model which sets out how GMP will change to ensure we are focused on keeping people safe.

There are five key principles that underpin the model and it builds on work that has been underway as part of Fit for the Future.

CC Hopkins said: “The Target Operating Model provides clarity about the future direction for GMP and the elements within it that we may be talking about now will become the stuff of day-to-day policing in a few years.

“Work is already underway with the implementation of the local policing review,

COMMITMENT TO PLACE We will have integrated working with partners that improves outcomes. This is about what matters to the people and the place, using the right professionals to identify the causes of problems and how to tackle them. Our resources will be used where there is greatest need.

This will mean having omni-competent officers.

DEVELOP & SUPPORT OUR WORKFORCE We will improve and invest in development for employees ensuring they have a supportive environment and career pathways. We will ensure wellbeing assistance and provide support to help people with integrated working with partners.

the role out of mobile devices and body-worn video. All these are part of the shape of policing in the future.

“We have an opportunity now to take control of our future and make the changes we know are needed. The model has been developed with your support and working together we can make the changes that will make the difference to communities. We are strongest when we work together as one team.”

Further details about the Target Operating Model will be cascaded across the Force in the next two months.

APPROACH TO THREAT, HARM AND RISK We will be robust about what we will and will not attend based on where there is the greatest need. It means using the right information to inform decisions from a workforce empowered to make decisions. We will develop a collective understanding of threat, harm and risk.

SUPPORTED BY INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY We will make better use of information to support decision making and share it with public sector partners.

New technology will be in place to provide self-service opportunities for citizens and businesses.

ESTABLISHING A CITIZEN CONTRACT We will attend when someone is in danger, distressed or vulnerable or there is a high chance of catching an offender.

We will develop digital contact methods and provide alternatives.

Success is…

• • • • • • •

a reduction in crime reduced levels of demand for services reduced complaints that are dealt with more quickly confident and engaged citizens and communities increased volunteers working alongside GMP increased online services an involved and productive workforce

PREDICTING RIOTS

Spotlight

where emergency services are called out to attend a serious incident where someone’s life is in danger. Local residents begin to harass the professionals working at the scene.

One incident quickly leads to another and all of the different partners have to play a part in managing the escalating situation.

As the officers start to arrive, one of the trainers briefs some of the volunteers who are acting as rioters and looks over at me watching from the sidelines. “Do you fancy getting involved and chucking a few bricks at the officers?” Well, how could I refuse such an offer? I was given a helmet (not very fitting with my new guise, but health and safety comes first) and joined the others to await further WHEN Senior Internal Communications Branch to give officers and other instruction.

Officer Melissa Mead went to observe one emergency services staff experience of Despite the rain turning to sleet at one of the latest Public Order Training how to manage major public disorder point and being absolutely frozen exercises, she got more than she incidents. throughout, it was great to participate in bargained for…

More than 50 officers will be put the exercise and watch close up how the It’s a cold, wet evening in January as I through their paces tonight, along with emergency services work together during pull up to Thompson Street Fire Station in members of Greater Manchester Fire and a major incident. At one point I had to Manchester City Centre. I’m here to Rescue Service (GMFRS) and several clamber over a car as a riot shield bore observe one of the Public Order Training paramedics from North West Ambulance down on me which was certainly not how exercises, which have been put in place Service. The officers are nowhere to be I’d pictured the evening ending up! by the Specialist Operations Training seen when I arrive and I have time for a Supt Graeme Openshaw attended as quick chat with Training Co-Ordinator an observer. He commented, “As a public Stuart Edwards who explains to me in order silver commander, it is essential to detail how the evening will run. keep my understanding of public order As the training sessions are ongoing, tactics up to date. This helps me to make there should be an element of surprise for better operational decisions when it comes the officers participating so unfortunately I to making plans for bronze commanders to can’t divulge too much, however it’s safe deliver.” to say it is extremely tough.

I also spoke to PC Helen McCormick.

The scenario begins in a hostile estate, She said, “I found the training really

enjoyable. During the scenario I was a front line officer and one of the first in.

When training just as the police, we are purely focused on dispersing and dealing with ‘rioters’, but in this case, our primary focus was to protect our colleagues in the ambulance and fire service.

“The challenge I would say, was being resilient by holding the protesters at bay whilst the other services got to work.

There was a lot of advancing and withdrawing which can seem tedious, but was necessary to perform our protective role.”

Sgt Andy Dalby was in charge of the exercise. He said “Training like this is all about joint working with our partners. We hold a structured de-brief at the end of each scenario – this is done so that we can evaluate the best working practices working side by side for each emergency service. An example is communication between the services – what may mean one thing for the fire service may be completely different for the police.”

For more information about Public Order Training, please contact Sgt Andy Dalby on Andrew.Dalby@gmp.police.uk

Spotlight

Faces of crimes past GMP Museum is dedicated to making its collections more accessible while preserving them for future generations. Recently the museum has been working with the Corporate Media Imaging department to digitise our more fragile books, uploading them to Flickr so they can be enjoyed by everyone.

The earliest known mug shots were believed to have been taken in Belgium in the 1840s. Police forces and prisons appear to have started regular photos in the 1860s but it wouldn't become a Home Office requirement until the 1870s. While fascinating in their own right these photos are an invaluable piece of social history.

Photographs were wildly expensive by today’s standards and would have been taken for special occasions, at a professional photography studio.

As such, families or individuals would normally be wearing their Sunday best and formally posed.

This results in a very limited view of society, usually of wealthier members of the public, leaving little to no record of poorer classes or 'every day' life and clothing.

This is why these shots are so important.

While of course many of these images are of wealthy people, we also have images of a class that history may have denied us, their clothes are those they put on that morning, no poses, no airs - a genuine snapshot into the lives of ordinary people.

We look forward to making more available to the public in the future, in the mean time we hope you find them as interesting as we do.

TWO courageous children received a Citizens Special Recognition award.

Lily (nine) and Eva Barber (six) had been taught by their mother Clare how to use the 999 system, so that they knew what to do if she had a seizure.

When Clare became ill whilst driving and pulled onto the hard shoulder the girls put into practice what their mother had taught them. Nine year old Lilly called 999 and spoke to call handler Stephanie Bishop as her mother slipped in and out of consciousness.

Despite being very afraid for her mother

Caption competition

What’s On? March 25—28 Easter Weekend

What’s On?

Brave girls

(From L-R) Eva, Clare, CC Ian Hopkins, Lily and call handler Stephanie Bishop

Lily was able to give a clear location of their position on a long dual carriageway, and an accurate description of their car Stephanie Bishop also received a Branch Commanders Award for her expert handling of the situation.

March 24 Little Mix Manchester Arena February 28

Send your caption suggestions to Brief@gmp.police.uk Last edition’s winner was PC Martin Slater, Oldham

Manchester United v Arsenal Premier League

On initial inspection, the trials for the ‘no marks’ deodorant appear to be going well….

April 10 Greater Manchester marathon

March 20 Manchester City v Manchester Utd Premier League April 5 Ellie Goulding Manchester Arena

17

17

Adverts

Holidays—Abroad GRAN CANARIA, Puerto Rico. Newly refurbished apt. Sleeps 4. Sea views, South facing, large sun terrace. Great location.Ideal for couples, families, small groups. No price increase in school hols.

Call or text 07946415721 for info.

LUXURY FLORIDA VILLA. 10 mins to Disney, 5 beds, 3 baths, games room, south facing pool and hot tub.

Special GMP rate, exclusive location.

Visit www.greenviewsvilla.com or call 0161 973 1822.

GREECE - Beautiful exclusive selfcatering boutique apartments with superb beachfront location close to village of Vagia on wonderful Aegina island Greece. Visit www.thebeachhousegreece.com or email info@thebeachhousegreece.com.

Mention 'Brief' for discounted rates.

For further information please contact Andy Connell PIN 66598. Tel: 07867 468499.

Cupcakes Feather Cupcakes make cupcakes for all occasions. With beautiful Cupcake Bouquets available in 3 sizes, gluten free and egg free cupcakes are also available. All cupcakes are topped with either buttercream or cream cheese buttercream. With a variety of

flavours and designs, they are perfect for birthdays, children's parties, Easter, mother's day, Father's day, valentines, Christmas or just because. Offers are available on the website. Please call Sandra Young on ext. 60757 or take a look at www.feathercupcakes.co.uk / Facebook "Feather Cupcakes" for further details.

and any length holiday stays. No cages (unless your dog is used to one). Call Gina 0161 476 4968 or Mobile 07960 665600. *Special rates for officers and staff*

Police Promotion Masterclass

Paving Well worth Paving. Block paving concreting, decking, flagging, fencing, turfing. Garage bases/footings.

Walling and house drainage. 25 yrs experience - free quotes. Tel: 07974 349271.

Taekwondo Coaching Manchester Aces Taekwondo is one of the most successful clubs in the UK and is home to Jade Jones (Olympic Champion) and Paul Green (National Coach). The family club train at George H Carnall Leisure Centre, Urmston - all welcome, from 6 years onwards. See www.manchesteraces.com or contact Jonathan Anderson on 62562/077710 172777.

Dog Sitting Waggy Tails - Home from Home Dog Sitting Service. Doggy Day Care, overnight stays, weekend sleepovers

Specifically designed for police officers preparing for promotion at all ranks, including NPPF Stage 3 candidates.

Know what to expect, how to prepare and how to deliver with a bselected Masterclass designed and delivered by a team of assessment & selection, HR and police experts. Masterclasses delivered nation-wide, including GMP Sedgley Park. Focusing on the promotion assessment framework and leadership expectations, the Masterclass equips you with the skills, technique and confidence required to focus your preparation, resulting in highly effective delivery when it counts.

Visit www.bselectedpolice.com for How to Advertise in Brief: Please fill in the Electronic version of the Advertisement Coupon here: www.gmp.police.uk/briefads All terms and conditions in relation to Adverts are also listed there.

Obituaries Michael Jaroslav Pouchly, died 3/10/15, age 61 Edwin Snowden, died 4/10/15, age 88 Frank Burke, died 7/10/15, age 84 Clifford Harold Webb, died 8/10/15, age 88 John Ainsworth, died 10/10/15, age 87 Ronald Clayton, died 17/10/15, age 86 Mark Ian Shorrock, died 17/10/15, died 63 Stephen Steele, died 17/10/15, age 60 Geoffrey Graham Barber, died 19/10/15, age 65 Alan Staniland Fowler, died 20/10/15, age 68 Michael James Bowe, died 22/10/15, age 59 Stephen Martin Mellor, died 29/10/15, age 55 Allan Leake, died 29/10/15, age 67 Brian Stephen Small, died 7/11/15, age 67 Denys Hanmer Bowes, died 10/11/15, age 74 Patrick John McDermott, died 11/11/15, age 81 Aubrey George Thompson, died 20/11/15, age 83 Clive Charles Richardson, died 21/11/15, age 58 Arthur William Clarke, died 21/11/15, age 81 James Baybutt, died 21/11/15, age 78 Ivan Leonard Johnson, died 22/11/15, age 68 Ian Gossop, died 25/11/15, age 65 Simeon Hough, died 2/12/15, age 89 Leonard John Jeffries, died 20/12/15, age 90 Alan Peter Maloney, died 29/12/15, age 71 Alan Alfred Fowler, died 30/12/15, age 86 W Hamer, died 2/1/16, age 89 John Alan Cropper, died 5/1/16, age 79 Normal Stephen Stretton, died 12/1/16, age 61 Thomas Dawson, died 17/1/16, age 78 Keith Walker, died 21/1/16, age 67 David Rawsthorn, died 23/1/16, age 71 David Lawrence Whittaker, died 25/1/16, age 82 John Michael, Todd, died 27/1/16, age 69 David Clegg Roberts, died 28/1/16, age 68

In January this year myself on behalf of our committee reported a theft of money from our funds, at which point PC John Stafford came to see us. One of our former committee members had stolen £600 worth funds we used to run a free breakfast club for the children and families on our estate.

PC Stafford explained it may be difficult to recover the money but assured us he would try everything his power to resolve the matter. The person in question ended up agreeing to pay half the money and received a formal caution. Whilst this wasn't our ideal outcome we appreciated that PC Stafford had done everything he could.

This week PC Stafford popped in to our community café to check on whether the first payment had been made and to make sure we were ok.

We were overwhelmed by what he said next. He had written a letter explaining our situation to various local supermarkets and businesses to see if they could donate cereals, milk etc. for the club. Knowing our breakfast club

19

is on next week he has even delivered the donations he's received to us and is continuing to try and get donations including craft packs for the children.

PC Stafford has definitely gone above and beyond the call of duty and shown that police work is as much about working with communities as it is about prosecuting criminals. He has single-handedly shown the police force in a whole new light and is an absolute credit to your force. I cannot stress enough what this act has meant to us and how he has managed to turn such a horrible situation into a positive and inspirational one.

Steph Deacon Alt Community Challenge Team My home was broken into and all my jewellery was stolen. I rang the local police station as soon as the burglars had left. From the minute the first ones (PCs James Forster, Phillip Pilkington, Lauren Bridge) arrived at my home they were all wonderful and so kind to me.

Each one that came after that treated me with kindness and support even going to get my grandson from his home to stay with me.

Please thank everyone involved, they helped me through a very upsetting period with their kindness.

My eternal thank to you all from myself and my grandson.

Mrs Alma Green (Hyde) My husband and I went for a walk to the retail park. We decided to get a tram back but as we approached the tram stop my husband fell and hurt himself rather badly. We called the ambulance and within only minutes several of your police officers appeared and I have never been more grateful to see them. They were a credit to the Force, in particular PC Ian Tonge.

My husband is recovering now and will forever be in their debt.

Mrs Stephanie Bedford

Letters

Letters of Appreciation

Mum’s three heroes I received an extremely distressing phone call that my mum had collapsed suddenly on Holden Road in Leigh. She had suffered a cardiac arrest. I have since learned that PCs Jimmy Mitchell, Kevin James and Paul Stocks were travelling down Holden Road that morning and very kindly stopped.

They immediately took over the situation and commenced CPR until the ambulance arrived and shocked her to re-start her heart.

My mum was conveyed to hospital where she was placed in a medically induced coma for a several days. I’m pleased to say that she is making remarkable progress and this is purely down to the officers’ prompt actions.

Their first aid training proved vital in what must have been a very frightening experience. To quote the consultant “They deserve a medal, they saved your mum’s life.”

I thank them, not only for myself and Sean, but for my mum and all my family. The gratitude we feel today will remain with us for the rest of our lives.

Anita Bradley, The Hub, Wigan

GMP life

Kerr’s K-9s

As a volunteer I am involved in conducting home checks on owners, dog assessments, facilitating JANINE Kerr has been a police after seeing him at an animal sanctuary meetings with dogs and officer with GMP for 23 years and is and shortly after I got involved with potential owners, transporting currently a Forensic Collision GSDR I took Molly home, an 18-month- and fostering. We also do a lot Reconstruction Officer based in the year old who would have otherwise of fundraising for the charity Serious Collision Investigation Unit have been put to sleep under the local as we run on donations alone.

(SCIU) at Eccles. In her spare time she council’s policy.

I have met so many new volunteers for German Shepherd Dog GSDR is made up completely of people and, made lots of new Rescue (GSDR). She spoke to Brief volunteers dedicated to rehoming GSDs friends. I get out, get fit and about her work with the charity.

- they have a no kill policy with all the get involved in a variety of I have always had a love for German animals they work with. I first heard events and all the time help to Shepherd Dogs (GSDs). I love their about the charity when I saw the story raise much needed funds for a look and just everything about their of a dog called Tyson on Facebook. He wonderful breed. character—they are so loyal and loving. had been rescued by the charity after For more information about There is nothing better than watching a being starved, strangled and left for GSDR, please click here or them in action. I got my first GSD, dead. I couldn’t get this picture out of you can call Janine at 07974 Dexter, in 2000 who is sadly no longer my head and that’s when I knew I had 781938. with us. Ten years later, I adopted Max to get involved with the charity.

CSI turns budding author

RITA Brassington, a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) at GMP for almost 10 years, talked to Brief about publishing her first book.

I’ve always enjoyed writing, and after finding myself with a spare summer after university, I set myself the challenge of writing a book.

I’d travelled to the USA to stay with friends I’d met while studying at the Maastricht Centre for Transatlantic Studies (MCTS), and remember looking

CSI turns budding author

PC Janine Kerr pictured with her three dogs (from L-R Max, Dexter and Molly.)

up at the airport departures board and thinking ‘what would happen if you left your whole life behind and started again?’ The story evolved from there.

I planned to look for book agents after finishing the manuscript, but then landed the CSI role. I forgot about the book for years as I completed more studies alongside my role, until I decided to give it another go .

The story concerns a girl who runs away from her fiancé, moves to Chicago and hastily marries someone else, only to find out he’s been keeping secrets…

The book was launched in November

2015 with some great reviews so far – my favourite being from the Portobello Book Blog who suggested it would make an excellent film!

If I had any advice for budding authors, it would be to think long and hard before deciding to write – it can take over your life. But if you have a story inside bursting to get out, go for it.

You have nothing to lose, and nothing can compare with seeing your own name on a book cover.

‘The Good Kind of Bad’ can be bought at Amazon in paperback and eBook. Click here.

ON Thursday 14 January 2016, 18 North Manchester cadets were welcomed into the GMP family.

The event was attended by the Lord Mayor of Manchester Paul Murphy, the High Sheriff of Manchester Sharman Birtles, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle, Ch Supt Was Choudhry along with nearly 100 friends and family of the cadets.

In order to pass out the cadets have had to go through a gruelling probation period, learning about law, procedure, the police, demonstrating team work and leadership through team building activities and sport and committing to volunteering hours beyond their commitment of two hours every week.

"Volunteering is at the heart of our city," were the first words uttered by the Lord Mayor as he opened the ceremony. Following the new cadets

passing out, Chloe Cary was given the award of Cadet of the Year for her outstanding leadership, maturity, 100 per cent attendance and an exceptional amount of volunteering hours given up.

Cadet Callum Phelan was given an award of most improved cadet, having shown an exceptional improvement in his role as cadet over the last three years.

Head Cadet Hassan Khan commented on Facebook; "Just wanted to say a special thank you to all the leaders! Today has been one of my most proud and emotional moments. You all have been so supportive for us all over the three years that I have been in cadets now and I see you all a second family who I visit every week and I can have an amazing time with! Thank you for the badge and all the amazing memories that you gave through my time at cadets!"

Life after GMP ON Monday 8 February, a retirement community. ceremony was held for 24 officers and During his career he worked on the staff at Sedgely Park. Brief caught up with TAU for four years, as well as stints on the Conroy Sproul to find out more about his North Manchester and Stockport divisions. career with GMP. He finished his career based at FHQ Conroy joined GMP in 1986, when working on the Criminal Justice team. officers from a BME background were Conroy has no regrets about his career extremely rare. He joined the force at a choice. "I feel I chose wisely and I am very tense time racially - it was only a year proud to have served in GMP," he after the Cherry Groce incident, which led commented at the ceremony. to the London riots in which PC Keith So, what's next? Having already Blakelock was murdered. ventured into the property business, When he was posted to his nearest Conroy is about to complete an Open police station just one mile from his home, University Law Degree and is considering Conroy regularly saw people he went to taking a job in the law sector in the future. school with. Inevitably he was scrutinised He is looking forward to having more time as to why a black man from Old Trafford with his wife, fellow GMP officer Beth would join the police, and whilst his friends Colbourne and their two children. were supportive some acquaintances were less than friendly about it.

However, he believes that those who criticised him 30 years ago now respect him for his achievements, and the trust and confidence he has earned Conroy Sproul receiving his retirement certificate from CC Ian Hopkins from the

GMP life

Cadets make first steps into GMP

Cadets make first steps into GMP

Passing out with pride – the North Manchester cadets with Deputy PCC Jim Battle, Ch Supt Wasim Choudhry, Lord Mayor Paul Murphy and High Sheriff Sharman Birtles

On Twitter Chief Insp Ruffle @jpruffle Fantastic night witnessing the volunteer cadets pass out @gmpolice. Well done @davidpenney86 and team #proud Sgt David Penney @davidpenney86 Thoroughly rewarding tonight, a chance to reward both senior and new cadets. Some shining examples of what young ppl can achieve!

21

GMP life

Shedding the pounds to walk the beat TWO GMP Special Constables are celebrating after losing a combined weight of 12 stone in order to join the Force.

26-year-old Matthew Inman lost over seven stone and Hayley Binyon, Special Constables Matthew Inman and Hayley Binyon 21, dropped five stone whilst meeting dropped a combined weight of 12 stone the fitness requirements during Constable’s event back in 2013 and I GMP’s recruitment process. Both haven’t looked back since.” constables name healthy eating and regular gym visits as the recipe to their Hayley, from Denton, had dreamed of success, but the real motivation came being a police officer since she was a from their desire to take up a volunteering small girl but never thought she would be post as a special constable. fit enough and was concerned that her weight would prevent her from completing Matthew decided to lose weight after attending an event for people interested in the fitness test. Using her dream as motivation, Hayley changed her diet and becoming a special constable in 2013. started going to the gym and over the Starting off slowly by changing his diet and joining the gym, the weight started to course of three years managed to lose five stone. Hayley now has a personal fall off. Matthew credits his friends with trainer and has competed in (and won) helping him to lose weight: “My friends national training competitions such as the have been the most help, if I’m honest – lots of them already go to the gym a lot so Gorton Grueller. In the future Hayley aims they helped me to start training and really to continue with her weight loss and become a regular officer. supported me. It was also a friend who encouraged me to attend the Special

Cross country champs HUNDREDS of runners braved the cold, wind and rain to take part in the National Police Sport UK Cross Country Championship on Wednesday 17 February.

At just four degrees celsius, it's fair to say it was a challenge for all involved but participants from Forces around the UK made sure the wet weather didn't dampen spirits.

The event took place at Woodbank Park in Stockport and was hosted by ACC John O'Hare, Supt Jo Rogerson and Chief Officer of Jersey Police Mike Bowron (the chair of PSUK Athletics).

180 men and 68 women ran the race, representing a total of 37 Sound the horn! ACC John O’Hare hosted the event in Stockport

forces. The ladies course was 7.5km and men’s was 10.5km. The park was extremely muddy for all and described by many as 'a proper cross-country' event.

The overall winner of the men’s race was Derbyshire Special Constable Joe Rainford and the winner of the ladies race was Police Scotland's Dianne Lauder.

The annual national championship moves around different locations in the UK. If you'd like to find out more information about taking part in the next race, please contact Gary Corns at gary.corns@gmp.police.uk.

A selection of pictures taken around the Force in January and February 2016 For more images of GMP, visit our Flickr site