Body on the Moors
The mystery that sparked international coverage 140 Years of the Band
Making a difference through music LGBT D66 Code
Recognising same sex domestic abuse
Brief investigates: Spice The drug threatening Manchester’s vulnerable communities
Columns
Thank you for your support, Tony WE often talk about policing becoming more complex as we are faced with cyber-crime, terrorism, child sexual exploitation, and modern slavery. But we are still dealing with robbery, burglary, car crime and anti-social behaviour. Managing our resources is always going to be a challenge which is why the work on the Target Operating Model (TOM) is so important. It is only with changing the way we
work that we can start to really deal with the problem of drugs on the streets. The growth in the use of Spice has been having a devastating effect on Manchester City Centre and we need to be able to work with other key agencies to tackle it. (see p12). Having an honest conversation with the public about the difficulties we face is another key strand of the TOM. A huge programme of consultation with the public will draw to a close later this month and has already shown there is still considerable support for police. But while many local people are aware we have faced budgetary challenges they are not aware of the scale of it. Being clear
Grateful for the work you do As I near the end of my time as Police and Crime Commissioner I have been reflecting on the work we’ve done together. Our time has not been without its challenges, but I have also witnessed innovation, resilience, and – above all – unwavering commitment to keeping
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the people of Greater Manchester safe. I have had the privilege to work with two Chief Constables – Sir Peter Fahy and Ian Hopkins – both dedicated to policing and protecting our towns and cities. But their work has only been made possible thanks to every one of you: officers, PCSOs, Specials, and staff. In 2012 I inherited a police force already feeling the effects of government cuts, and during my time
about what people can expect will be part of our Citizen Contract. The positive effect of the changes has been recognised in the recent HMI Effectiveness Report where we received a ‘good’ rating. Within the report our efforts to tackle serious and organised crime was rated as outstanding but we know we have work to do on how we support vulnerable people and on investigating local crime. This is the last edition of Brief before Tony Lloyd steps down as Interim Mayor and I want to thank him for the support he has given to GMP throughout his time as both Police and Crime Commissioner and Interim
this pressure has remained constant. But I’ve also seen first-hand the difference that has been made by police and wider partner agencies coming together to protect the vulnerable and reduce demand on public services. Modern policing is incredibly challenging, but I hope you are also feeling its rewards. Two recent waves of new recruits bring with them new blood to the service and this coupled with the valuable knowledge our experienced officers and staff bring means that the people of Greater Manchester can rely on the top class
Mayor. Tony was Greater Manchester’s first PCC and is recognised nationally for work to support policing to deal with difficult issues including counter terrorism, mental ill health and challenging partners to look differently at how they deal with women offenders. Tony has been a strong voice for Greater Manchester and has supported me in the work to recruit a workforce that is more reflective of our communities. He has supported the investment in technology that is having a major impact on improving policing and many other things. We all wish him in good luck for the future.
Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable service you provide. I know that your public service ethos drives you to serve the public bravely and I am grateful for the work you do. When I finish my term in May, I know I will be leaving a police service that is fully capable of grasping opportunities and tackling the challenges ahead. The people of Greater Manchester – and the newly elected mayor – will be in safe hands. Best wishes, and thank you,
Tony Lloyd, Police & Crime Commissioner
4 Around the World & drunk during
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interview World’s worst interview?
investigates: Spice An insight into the new drug threatening Manchester’s most vulnerable communities.
5 New GMP website & MAPPA 6-7 Force Round-up Catch up with the goings on around GMP’s divisions
8 What’s trending
Cover feature: Brief
13 Cover feature: 140 years of the Band Marking the occasion with numerous events throughout the year
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competition & What’s on Crystal Maze comes to Manchester
18 Adverts & Obituaries 19 Letters of Appreciation Celebrating the good work in GMP
20 Mounted Unit special Discount Guru Savings for lifesavers
Meet the new recruits and learn more about reportmyloss.com
22 Well and truly hooked &
10 iOPS and Sign language service
Knockout Join in the sporting fun
See what is happening with the iPOS project
23 Rochdale remembers & Salford
Lost in translation & Manchester’s
Hidden Gem
Mystery man revealed
14 Cover feature: Man on the moor How the investigation into the international mystery unfolded
15 Cover feature: LGBT D66 code GMP making history
Duncan & Katie from the Museum
17 Scarface Alf, Caption
21 Married couple on the beat &
News in Brief
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GMP Life
A GMP Changing of the Guards
Social media highlights so far
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End of term for Tony
Contents
Spotlight
News
fundraising The opening of Ray Colding library
Farewell to Tony Lloyd
With thanks to the following people for their contribution to this issue:
Kate Leach
Kieanna Jackson
PC Andy Costello
DC John Coleman
Be published in Brief Editorial team: Melissa Mead, Fiona Carroll, Rosie Arnold, Melissa Pye 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 65939 / 2238 / 5938 Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk Brief online: www.gmp.police.uk/Brief Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by
Friday 16 May
A look back at Tony Lloyd’s term of office
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News
Around the world Woman flees after Big Mac attack A woman is on the run after throwing a cheeseburger at her mum in rage. Called to an assault at McDonalds, police in Indianapolis were met with a woman who had mustard dripping down her shirt and parts of the burger splattered across the inside of the car. Her face was swollen and she claimed she had a sore cheek after her daughter had launched the burger at her in a fight. After refusing to move out of her mum’s home, the daughter had thrown her burger and then fled the disasterscene in another car. What a pickle.
Put your hooves where I can see them: You’re udder arrest An officer in Texas was surprised to find himself chased down by a cow when on patrol. Officer Gabriel Estrella first saw the four-legged suspect when he was driving the streets of Temple and after checking that he wasn’t seeing things,
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began chasing the cow across the fields. After a lengthy pursuit, the officer managed to secure the animal in a fenced area, but as he shut the gates the cow charged towards him, so he had no choice but to hide behind his car. The cow was last spotted heading east outside the city.
An illegal banana split Officer seized 57 bananas in Spain and found 17kgs of cocaine hidden under the resin coating of the fake bananas. These fakes were cleverly hidden in boxes of real fruit that had been shipped into the country from Valencia and Malaga. The banana takedown was part of a big operation to infiltrate a big drugs gang that had taken over.
Where do you see yourself in 5 minutes? ….Arrested Drunk interview candidate leaves GMP without his licence When the IT department welcomed their next candidate to his interview, they were expecting him to be oozing confidence, not alcohol. As the interviewer welcomed the man to the office and asked how his journey was, they could smell stale alcohol on the candidate’s breath. What made them more concerned was the fact he had driven in and struggled to park.
breathalysed him and found the man was significantly over the limit (16 points over). The man was then arrested and charged with drink driving, being disqualified from holding a driving licence for a year and fines of £235.
The quick thinking of the interviewer stopped this man from getting back into his car, drunk. The interviewer said: “I didn’t want the They carried on with the interview and man returning to his vehicle, given the by the time the final question was obvious smell of alcohol. I couldn’t asked, the smell of alcohol was live with myself if there had been a overpowering. The interviewer didn’t collision and someone ended up want this man to get back in his car seriously hurt.” It goes without saying drunk, so he went out to ask an officer that the man didn’t get the position he for advice on what to do. was going for, but will probably remember this interview for a long When the traffic officer arrived, he time. asked whether the man had been drinking before the interview, to which he replied no. The officer then asked if he’d had a drink the night before and the man admitted that he’d shared a bottle of wine with his wife. Sure that half a bottle of wine would not have impaired him as much as the man’s current state, the officer took him to the police car where he
Remember being over the limit can kill: don’t drink and drive
AFTER months of development, GMP’s Digital team have now launched a new look website designed with the user at the centre. It’s a new direction for the public facing site with a bigger focus on customer service and transactional contact. Rob Birkett, Digital Manager said: “The new GMP website transforms the way in which we present information to the community. By focussing more on offering services and answering queries digitally, we aim to help drive down demand on traditional forms of contact. “The feedback we have received so far is hugely encouraging and overwhelmingly positive, and we are currently working on further
expanding the range of services we offer online. “We wanted to bring the website and its underlying services up to date as part of the wider citizen focus and iOPS project.” After trawling through years of analytical data, the team built the site to rely heavily on the ability to triage visitors to get them to the information they need quickly. This has all been built with a new knowledge base back end which has greatly increased the content available. Additional services are now in the planning stages to further enhance
Tribute to Karin
Karin’s son Joe, daughter Claudia and husband Kevin
the digital facilities on offer to the public. The team are hoping to launch a live text chat system via the website to allow people to speak directly with a call handler for advice or to report low level crime. Trials are currently ongoing for the system which aims to reduce call waiting time dramatically. Take a look at the new look website here.
The UK’s first black female chief inspector, Karin Mulligan, who sadly passed away in 2009 has been honoured with a memorial plaque at Force headquarters as a permanent tribute to her outstanding work and commitment to the Force and its employees. Karin was one of the UK’s highest ranking black female officers, reaching the rank of Temporary Superintendent. She had over 27 years police service and was dedicated to ensuring that equality and diversity were adhered to in GMP. She was instrumental in setting up the staff support network BAPA and acted as a role model for other BME women.
Learning from MAPPA
News
New look website puts the public first
Partners across Greater Manchester came together to discuss how to best protect victims as part of the Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA). In the first event of its kind for 10 years, more than 80 professionals from the police, probation, prison and other partner agencies gathered at Hough End to listen and learn from case studies in March. MAPPA was introduced by the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act in 2000 to ensure that high-risk offenders are managed by the appropriate agencies to minimise the risk of them re-offending. Since then, Greater Manchester has been the beacon of good practice nationally and a MAPPA Support Unit (MSU) has been established for 13 years, based alongside the Sex Offender Management Unit (SOMU). Det Sgt Nick Schofield has worked for the MSU for the past five years and recently retired. He said: “I have witnessed considerable change in terms of culture and practices. In the early years, multiagency working was occasionally mentioned and occasionally practiced. I can say with confidence multi-agency working is now genuinely practiced, valued and recognised by all as essential for effective public protection.” If you have any queries about MAPPA , particularly how to refer an offender to MAPPA, please contact the MSU on x 63636.
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Divisional News
Divisional Roundup Stockport Well done to the Stockport colleagues of PC Jinnett and Paul Lunt for raising £1020 for Maggie’s at the Christie Hospital. Maggie's centres are a support network for anyone who have been affected by cancer, whether it's financial help, emotional help or just somewhere for a brew and chill at a difficult time. The charity is close to Jinnett’s heart after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. She and Paul would like to personally thank their colleagues for all their support.
Bury
Rochdale
Trafford The Globe Community Fitness Centre in Old Trafford has been awarded £10,000 after a successful funding application including the High Sheriffs Fund. The purpose of the centre is to provide an environment that supports individuals from the community who need a route to well being and health. Services will include: boxing, yoga, mat exercises and even the opportunity for a cup of tea. The centre is holding an opening day on 19 April and all are welcome to attend.
Cadets from Bury recently performed at an event for a share of £5000 promoting healthy eating for Collabor8. After a great performance they managed to win £1000. Thanks to PC Heap and PCSO Bigland for assisting with the group.
Officers from Rochdale located a discarded live hand grenade in a wooded area off Cecil Street in the Milkstone & Deeplish area. The area was cordoned off and bomb disposal officers were deployed to assess the situation. The device was later identified as a flash bang grenade and was recovered to be made safe.
Tameside Tameside recently held an awards ceremony at Old Chapel Unitarian Church Hall, where 27 awards were handed out to officers, including Good Work Minutes, Chief Supt commendations and Divisional Commanders Awards. Well done to all.
Bolton
Paul McGovern HMP, Deputy Head Jason Owen and PCSO Mark Sumner
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Officers at Bolton recently held an 'Actions and Consequences' day at Gaskell Community Primary School. PCSO’s Mark Sumner and Johny Thornly with NBO Paul Shepherd proving a favourite with the kids. Kath Wright , Assistant Headteacher said: “Paul was amazing and great fun - his delivery had the children on the edge of
their seats, and the way in which he presented it, is likely to remain in their memories for years to come. “PCSOs Mark Sumner and Johnny Thornley were also great sports and spent the full day with us.” Paul McGovern from HMP also attended the event.
Local neighbourhood officers helped to deliver the Barney and Echo internet safety show to over 36 primary schools recently. Informing and spreading essential knowledge. #internetsafety
Airport Heartless fraudster Rebecca Waterfall was convicted at court last month having sold a holiday of a lifetime to a family. Waterfall booked the £5,200 holiday using a credit card belonging to her ex-employer even though she knew there was chance the fraud would be discovered before the
Divisional News
Wigan
Salford
family travelled. The youngest traveller, Lola aged 4 was stopped at the airport dressed in her Disney outfit. Waterfall was ordered to repay the cost of the holiday and sentenced to a suspended sentence and community service.
Salford officers teamed up with the fire service, Salix Homes and the local authority to speak with the residents from the Weaste area as part of national ‘Keep it Tidy’ week. An excellent day promoting public confidence in GMP.
City of Manchester
Oldham St.Mary's NBO PC Lee Aldcroft met with Abid Hussain, Director of Sports from Oldham Greenhill Community Sports & Recreation Club, to discuss future projects together at their venue; another great example of partnership work.
Officers from the City of Manchester visited Rolls Crescent Primary School for the second time recently to conduct a Junior PCSO operation. The operation involved two “junior PCSOs” accompanying officers for the day to see what life in the police is like. Duties included advising drivers on wrongful parking and visiting the station to introduce them to the protect team who are dedicated to protecting vulnerable children. The junior PCSOs then returned to school to tell the assembly about their experience. The role has left a very positive impact with the children and news of the operation has even been picked up by another local school St Wilford’s who have requested their own session.
The two junior PCSOs doing some important decision making
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What’s Trending?
Family reunited with stolen Maltese pup After a family’s five-month-old Shih Tzu cross Maltese Bobby was stolen when their house was burgled, they were devastated. The media rallied around and within a few days, Bobby was reunited with his family and back home. While the other items that were taken have not been located, the family were overwhelmed with joy to have their puppy safe and sound, back at home where he belongs.
National puppy day
Even though she was energetic and bouncing around the office, we managed to take a photo of the pup.
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At 5.30am on Tuesday 11 April, specialist officers set out to execute warrants at addresses across Manchester. As part of the operation, ten people were arrested and thousands of pounds worth of drugs were seized following a number of raids. It was a great team effort and Superintendent Dave Pester said: “We will continue to work with our partners and local communities to keep our streets safe and bring those who bring crime to our doorsteps to justice.”
Monthly Praise
This month celebrated a special day famously known as puppy day. Bella, who is an adorable cocker spaniel visited the corporate communications branch with her owner Robert Birkett on national puppy day.
Dawn raids produce results
Bella, received more than one thousand likes and in the comments people shared photos of their beloved animals.
News in Brief
All items including sandwiches will be freshly made on the premises ensuring a range of healthy options. It will also give officers and staff attending courses where food is not provided, the opportunity to purchase freshly made produce.
Tony Metcalfe and his twin sons
sworn in last year in September. Their father Tony Metcalfe is a constable with GMP since 1994 and he met their mother when they both volunteered as Specials. Good luck to all the new recruits.
News
ON 22 February, PC Rob Shakspeare was The best thing is, it’s completely free to presented the John Egerton award by DCC use, there’s a quick online form to comIan Pilling. plete and if an item is recovered, the right police force will get in touch. He received the award for his bravery involving a lone pursuit of an offender, believed to be in possession of a fire arm. Following observations, Rob witnessed the offender heading towards a busy area, and having genuine concern for the public’s safety, he quickly interjected the offender’s trail, causing him to release the firearm. The offender was able to regain Hargreaves family; his father Mark, his control of the weapon, leading Rob to grandfather Brian and Daniel pursue on foot. He managed to catch up with the offender, and restrained him until back up arrived. APRIL saw the introduction of 85 exter AT the end of February, GMP made nally recruited officers to GMP. Among the major changes to how members of the new faces was Daniel Hargreaves who is public report lost or stolen items. the third of his generation to join the GMP ranks. His father Mark Hargreaves was a Instead of going into a police station and sergeant in GMP, joining in 1990 and retirtalking to someone at a public enquiry ing in March 2017 after 27 years. His counter, people can now report their lost grandfather, Brian Hargreaves, was a Chief property online. Superintendent in GMP, joining in 1956 If anyone does come in with stolen goods and retired in 1989. or wants to find something they’ve lost, Another person attesting was John officers can direct them to the online Metcalfe, whose twin brother Daniel was service www.reportnyloss.com/uk
families with a relaxing atmosphere where they can call in for a coffee and a cake.
Neil Barlow, the manager at Hough End commented: “We are really excited with the renovation. The café looks great and we are delighted to be working with MC Catering providing our members with healthy and tasty snacks.”
GMP’s sports and social club has partnered up with local business MC Catering to unveil a brand new café at Hough End. “Bean in Mcr” will provide sports and social members and their
Lynn Potts at the opening of Bean in Mcr
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News 10
GMP launches new BSL service Did you know, GMP is providing a service that enables people to use British Sign Language (BSL) to report a crime online? SignVideo was launched last year. Before the roll out, people who use BSL in Greater Manchester would have needed to report a crime face to face with an officer and an interpreter present. BSL users are now able to use the SignVideo service as an instant video interpreter between themselves and GMP’s call handlers, enabling them to speak to the police wherever they are. Accessing the SignVideo service through the GMP website on a laptop, smartphone or tablet, members of the public can simply click on a button to be connected to SignVideo. SignVideo will then phone through to GMP’s call handling team for the request to be processed. We already helped members of the deaf community access services through public enquiry counters, an emergency text message service and a text relay service, but this addition means that non-emergency calls can be taken from anyone whose first language is BSL. The service is available from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays. Outside these hours and to report an emergency BSL users should continue to use existing methods of contact. The online translation service is provided by SignVideo under GMP’s contract with Capita Translation and Interpreting.
iOPS: A change for the better iOPS is one of the biggest changes ever to happen to our systems. GMPICS, Opus, ICIS Case and Custody and KIM Property will be replaced with the new integrated operational policing system, iOPS. There has been a lot of speculation about what this new integrated system will and won’t do, with a lot of officers feeling the frustration around the existing systems we already have. We sat down with DC Samuel Findlay to see what’s happening with the project. He said: “As an officer, when you’re working on a project, it’s very easy to detach yourself from ‘real policing’ and can forget what a difficult job we do on a daily basis. “I had a wake-up call when I received an email from a friend who’s a detective in Stockport.
“He explained how frustrated he was by the computer system which had let him down when he tried to complete a rape investigation on a tight deadline. “Although he’d allowed himself enough time to meet the deadline, he couldn’t complete simple tasks on his computer because of technical glitches. “Thankfully he didn’t throw his computer out the window, but the email reminded me of why I joined the IS transformation programme. “Officers like me may be on a project and be called ‘subject matter experts’ but at the end of the day, we’re cops. We understand the frustrations you feel when you’re having to duplicate information into numerous systems instead of spending time in the community.
“The iOPS team are here to give you the best system possible and from what I’ve seen, it will reduce the need to duplicate information and give us simpler access to intelligence. “This will help us problem solve at the earliest possible opportunity and mean that we can share information with partner agencies like social services and housing. “With a quicker, more efficient system to highlight issues such as vulnerability, we can look after our communities and do what we do best, protect the people of Greater Manchester.” Find out more here.
Hidden Gem No longer lost in translation OFFICERS on the City of Manchester division had a lightbulb moment which helped saved GMP a considerable amount of time and money. Two Mongolian victims had been subject to a vicious attack which came in to officers as an S18 for grievous bodily harm. However, the investigation had come to a grinding halt as the officers on the case could not find an interpreter to gain a witness statement for one of the victims. Officers Matt Hulme and Christopher D Clarke were faced with costly and time consuming travel arrangements as the small number of Mongolian interpreters in the country were based in the south. They started to think about alternatives that could get them a better and quicker outcome for the victims, and came up with the idea of using Skype to digitally link in with an interpreter. They were able to set up the virtual meeting and obtain the statement and are now
awaiting a charging decision from the Crown Prosecution Service. This innovative approach has since been used successfully on the same division with a Syrian harassment victim. Thanks to gaining a statement with the assistance of an interpreter via Skype, the perpetrator has now been charged and remanded. Supt Steve Howard said: “This is an excellent piece of innovation, and it’s exactly what I’m looking for from officers – seeing a problem and then finding a solution. Their use of the new video conferencing equipment has saved the organisation over £1,000. It’s great to see ideas from our frontline officers making a difference to how we protect victims and bring perpetrators to justice.”
On Newton Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, there’s a big blue door that leads to one of Manchester’s best kept secrets. The Greater Manchester Police Museum sits in a former police station, with an extensive collection of archive material and objects that tell the story of the history of policing in Greater Manchester and has been awarded Visit England’s Hidden Gem. Visitors can take a stint in the cells, try on different parts of an officers’ uniform and journey through the police’s past as they travel through the museum. At the end of the trip, you can pick up some policing goodies in the gift shop. They’ve recently designed a new tote bag with designer Julia Gash, which depicts some of the museum’s exhibits. Katie Henderson, museum officer for GMP Museum, said: “We are delighted to be awarded the Hidden Gem accolade for the second time.
News
Manchester’s
“The award highlights the amazing work of our volunteers and staff. It’s great because it shows that people out there are enjoying exploring our policing history and really engaging with it.” If you haven’t already visited the museum, it’s open between 10am3.30pm on a Tuesday and can be booked for groups on other days of the week.
New tote bag for £9
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Spotlight
Brief investigates: Spice The drug threatening Manchester’s most vulnerable communities Spice is the generic term for a herbal smoking mixture containing synthetic cannabinoids, which has recently received extensive media coverage. Internal Communications Officer Melissa Pye finds out more...
SPICE started off as a low key legal high back in 2009, being sold and marketed as ‘plant food’. Being readily available in herbal stores and with there being no stigma and no back alley transactions, momentum began to grow. People felt comfortable purchasing it from a shop where it was perfectly legal. By 2012 the drug had reached its peak in popularity. It was synonymous with the prison community for being cheap, addictive and easily accessible. Before the Psychoactive Substances Bill was introduced it was legal for individual possession, so visitors would try and smuggle the drug; knowing that there would be no repercussions except seizure of the
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drugs. The prison population began to suffer further as Spice began being used as a currency; now not only were inmates becoming addicted but they had debts that needed to be settled when they were released. The momentum inside prison reflected that on the outside also. Spice was slowly taking over the Northern Quarter community and police reported that in one year, on one street alone Spice related incidents grew from 19 to 93. The drug itself is made of a mixture of toxic cannabinoids. It works on similar receptors in the body to that of cannabis but is 800 times stronger. Unlike cannabis that just partially bonds to our receptors and causes a
mild relaxation, Spice and its synthetic cannabinoids fully bond and take over the molecules affecting the central nervous system. This explains some of the shocking symptoms Spice is causing such as seizures, hysteria and paranoia. In May 2016 after an increase in the circulation and demand of Spice, the Psychoactive Substances Bill was introduced making synthetic cannabinoids illegal and a class B drug. The implementation of the bill caused the established shops to disappear but meant the distribution had gone underground and left GMP with volumes of street dealers. A simple mixture consisting of pot pourri as the base ingredient and a few other imported chemicals made it cheap, easy to produce and hard for officers to identify any one supply chain. The drug is now one of GMP’s priorities and positive action is being taken against dealers and those found in possession as this is a criminal offense. Working under Operation Mandera, officers and a specialist Spice team have plans to tackle the problem and eliminate it from our streets. PC Andy Costello who works as part of the specialised team commented: “Spice has been widely publicised recently for its devastating effects and how it’s destroying our
already vulnerable homeless communities. At just £5 a bag it is easily accessible and with the effects being visible in just 45 seconds it’s providing that escapism that our users are craving. “The effects can last for up to an hour and include vomiting, foaming at the mouth, paranoia and extreme hysteria. I would advise anyone who isn’t a trained medic to stay away and give the victim plenty of space and approach with caution. If a victim appears to be sleeping, try to wake them calmly as any sudden shocks can cause heart failure. “Although widely reported by the media there are only around 200 people in Manchester using it and the distribution remains within Piccadilly gardens making it easier to contain. “We are now working with Manchester Metropolitan University to identify the contents of different batches and to see if we can spot any patterns in the hopes of identifying specific suppliers.”
Spice information leaflet
ensemble and a Dixieland jazz quintet. We spoke to band manager Barry Frost. He said: “From becoming manager of the band in 2012, our focus has been to support our community and local charities, to make a difference through music. “In that time alone we have raised over £371,000 for local
Band pictured in 1981
THIS year, the Greater Manchester Police Band are celebrating their 140 year anniversary. They are marking the occasion with numerous events throughout the year. The original Police Band was formed in Salford after the funeral of a police officer in 1877. Following the amalgamation with the City Of Manchester Police in 1968, and the subsequent creation of Greater Manchester Police in 1974, the band has grown into an acclaimed 40 strong symphonic wind band,
coupled with an outstanding marching band who undertake many high profile parades and public ceremonies. They also have a big band ensemble with vocalists, plus smaller groups such as fanfare trumpeters, a saxophone quartet, a five piece jazz
lice b Oldham po
and, 1906
Spotlight
140 years of making a difference through music
Manager Barry Frost second from left
causes which is a tremendous effort, and we have a further 70 engagements booked between now and Christmas. Our 60 volunteers give up almost 11,000 hours per year of their time to make this happen which shows their commitment to our local community. We are proud to represent GMP and look forward to continuing our work for many more years." If you are interested in joining the band, please contact Barry on 07565962153. You can also find out more about them on their Facebook page or website.
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Spotlight Solving the mystery of the Man on the Moor Officers left to right: DC Chapman, DC Bragg and DS Coleman
IN March, Detective Sergeant John Coleman, Detective Constable Nicola Chapman and Detective Constable Kelly Bragg featured in a documentary on Channel 4 exploring their investigative work on a mysterious body that was found on Saddleworth Moor. Rosie Arnold looks at why this case was so intriguing. When a body was found at Dovestones Reservoir in December 2015, DS John Coleman and his team had no idea that it would take more than a year to uncover this man’s identity in what was to become an international investigation. The man’s body was found in a remote location, high up on a quiet
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track and then puzzle began when they realised this man had nothing, apart from a train ticket in his pocket, to give them any clue about who he was. With this train ticket, the team hoped someone would have seen him on his travels and be able to tell them more. They found that he had travelled from London, so they released CCTV images of him at a tube stop and later, footage of the man walking through Manchester Piccadilly train station. This release gave them a number of lines of enquiry to follow, even the possibility that the man may have been thrown there in a plane crash that had happened over Saddleworth Moor many years before.
The post-mortem exam on the mystery man gave the team their first leg-up in the investigation. They discovered a titanium plate in the man’s leg which was a specific brand only manufactured and fitted in Pakistan. In an unexpected turn of events, the team now had to figure out how the man’s time in Pakistan fitted into the puzzle of who this international traveller was. They got in touch with the National Crime Agency, who helped the investigative team talk to people in the medical community and the British Embassy in Pakistan. Despite their help in issuing further appeals for information in Pakistan, no one came forward. Just when they thought that they’d never be able to uncover this mystery man’s identity, the team had a breakthrough exactly a year on from when they first discovered the body. Enquiries with the airports in London, that were already underway, came back with CCTV footage of a man that looked like the artist’s impression of the mystery man. This man had travelled from Lahore to Heathrow Airport just two days before the unidentified man was found, so the team had a strong
feeling that this was their man. After carrying out a DNA test on the body, they were able to confirm his identity as David Lytton, 67, from London. David had been living in Pakistan for a decade before he came back to the UK and headed to the reservoir. His death was a result of Strychnine poisoning, a potent poison that was referenced in Agatha Christie novels. However, the coroner couldn’t confirm that he intentionally killed himself. Detective Sergeant John Coleman, said: “This has been an investigation unlike anything I have ever known in my 20 year career. It truly was a team effort. “Although we may never know why he returned to the UK and went to the reservoir that day, the collaborative effort in this international investigation has meant we can bring peace to his family.”
Click here to view a timeline…
GMP has taken an historic move in becoming the first Force in England to officially record domestic abuse in the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) community.
Det Ch Insp Myra Ball, trainer Emma Miller-McCaffrey and Tony Lloyd on the yellow sofa
THE closing code of D66 for same sex domestic abuse has now been launched across the Force during an official launch event. The OCR closing code was trialled back in June 2016 in one division and has now been rolled out across all divisions. No other police force in the UK has recorded this information before and we hope that it will capture trends and patterns and ultimately tackle the issue and support victims in the most effective way possible. This reporting system works by the attending officer requesting OCR to add a D66 code at the conclusion of
the incident for all same sex domestic abuse incidents or incidents where their sexuality is causing the domestic abuse. This will simply identify the incident as a same sex abuse, enabling us to record it correctly. It is important that we aim to record these incidents in the LGBT community. As we do not know the size of the LGBT community in Manchester or any other area, it is therefore difficult to understand the depth and quantity of the issue and under reporting. The launch of the D66 code has highlighted the fact that there is little data around LGBT
domestic abuse and GMP aim to a method of control. tackle this under-reporting head on. Recording these incidents with D66 DC Sarah Harris who is working on will help to increase our understanding the D66 project explains further: “We of this type of crime, and ultimately want to encourage all victims of enable GMP to offer support and domestic abuse to come forward so advice to victims - letting them know that we can help them in the most there is help specifically for them. appropriate way possible. We accept The launch event took place at that sometimes police involvement is Richmond Tea Rooms off Canal Street not always wanted so we work closely and was attended by partners coming with partner organisations to support together to talk to key community people in the way that they want whilst members about how the changes will still ensuring their safety.” help them, and show solidarity for Training events have been held tackling domestic abuse. across the Force to offer general Det Ch Insp Myra Ball, domestic LGBT awareness and how to use the abuse lead, was at the event and has code in the most effective way described the introduction of the code possible. The sessions have as: “A huge step forward in tackling highlighted the LGBT domestic abuse, HALF of gay/bisexual men specifically within the issues and provided information on how and 1 in 4 lesbian/bisexual LGBT community and best to support women have experienced shows our commitment to members of this supporting all victims of at least one incident of community. domestic abuse in the domestic abuse from According to the best way possible, for family or partner* LGBT Foundation, them. about 25 per cent of LGBT people “During the pilot in CoM we logged suffer through violent or threatening more than 150 incidents of LGBT relationships with partners or exdomestic abuse. This code will help us partners. Those involved are often to identify and monitor LGBT domestic afraid of revealing their sexual abuse incidents, and help us shape orientation or relationship and the any processes needed to tackle it.” abuser may use ‘outing the victim’ as
Spotlight
GMP flies the flag for LGBT domestic abuse
*(Stats accurate as of 2014.)
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Spotlight 16
crime plan with priorities focused around people and communities, not statistics. He’s also pushed for changes in it is needed most. the law, for example police or council Working closely with Chief Constable officers can now temporarily close Ian Hopkins, Tony has invested in premises where they suspect children mobile technologies and body worn are being sexually exploited, and an video cameras. Despite continuing updated approach to delivering sex and pressures on budgets, new officers relationship education will see young have been recruited for the first time in people better equipped to tackle the five years, bringing different experienc- modern world. es and fresh perspectives into the Tony was supported during his service to join our valued experienced term by Deputy Police and Crime Comofficers. missioner Jim Battle, who has been pivotal in the transformation of mental health crisis care, bringing partner agencies together to improve our response to domestic abuse, and supporting communities to tackle issues around road safety, alcohol, anti-social behaviour and hate crime. I am sure you will join us in wishing Tony and Jim all the best and, when the new mayor comes on board, he or As PCC, Tony has supported she can be sure that we’ll be ready for partnership working on a scale never the next phase in policing for Greater seen before. He has brought together Manchester. community groups, charities, voluntary organisations, and partner agencies from across the criminal justice sector and beyond to transform services and make a difference to the lives of local people. Tony abolished the target culture that dominated the policing landscape for so long, introducing a police and
End of term for Tony the country. The demands on policing in this region are huge and complex, but each and every staff member and officer IN 2012, Greater Manchester elected carries out their duty with dedication, Tony Lloyd as its first Police and Crime diligence and pride. Commissioner. On 4 May 2017, the “I am proud to have served the PCC’s responsibilities will transfer to the people of Greater Manchester as PCC newly elected Mayor of Greater Manand, while there are still challenges chester. Here we take a look back at ahead, whoever takes over as mayor in Tony’s term of office and the legacy he May can rest assured that the people of leaves behind. Greater Manchester are in safe and Tony’s time as PCC has been set capable hands.” against a backdrop of changing public As PCC, Tony has collaborated services, shrinking budgets and historic with partner agencies to reduce crime devolution deals. He’s worked closely and demand on stretched policing with two Chief Constables to reshape resources. For example introducing a the policing landscape, protect the 24-7 telephone service to help officers vulnerable, and manage the needs of people place the needs of affected by ill mental health, local people and and transforming justice communities at the services to help reduce heart of the service. re-offending. These and other When asked initiatives, have helped enabout his time as sure that people get appropriPCC, Tony said: ate support from the right “GMP is without agency at the right time, and doubt one of the police officers are able to best police forces in focus their attention on where
Meet the forbidding Sergeant Alf Foster – a legend from the ‘B’ Division, which is now the City of Manchester. Known locally as Scarface due to a deep wound across his left cheek, he is said to have struck fear into villains with
his formidable stature and imposing presence. Alf was born in the Staffordshire town of Burslem in 1895 and served with the Grenadier Guards before joining GMP in 1921 at the age of 25. Many fanciful stories were told about how he had gained his scar but in reality, he was wounded by shrapnel while fighting in the trenches. Rumour has it that he mastered the art of bringing down a fleeing offender with a well-aimed throw of his sergeants' stick. He retired from the force in November 1946 and died just a year later happy having dedicated his life to serving the public.
Caption Competition Well done to Ian Thompson who won the last caption competition.
What’s On? April 1-15 Andy Warhol at the Whitworth
What’s On?
The legend of Scarface Alf
Whitworth Art Gallery April 24-30 Wonderland Palace theatre
Now– June 30 Crystal Maze Experience Crystal Maze Studios M3 3JE
May 16 May 2 Bruno Mars Manchester Arena
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Manchester Arena April 14 April 16 Beer festival
The very first pound shop uses cardboard cut-out of police officers to deter shoplifters
Manchester Duck Race River Irwell
Sadler (Near Victoria Station)
May 20 Take That Manchester Arena May 3-20 Twelfth Night Send your caption suggestions to Brief@gmp.police.uk
Royal Exchange
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GMP Life
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Kitchens
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Obituaries
Doris Mary Goodwin , died 09/03/2017, aged 86.
Hugh Haggerty, died 16/02/2017, aged 82.
Derek Francis Sutton, died 20/02/2017, aged 84.
Audrey Mcnally , died 10/03/2017, aged 82
Aldyth Goldsmith, died 10/03/2017, aged 95.
Thomas Derek Tudge, died 01/03/2017, aged 79.
Marjorie Dawson Cooper, died 24/02/2017, aged 97.
Brian Charles Hibbert, died 01/03/2017, aged 78.
Paul Michael Brooks, died 20/02/2017, aged 58.
John Shaw, died 10/02/2017, aged 78.
Robert Rutland Dook, died 16/02/2017, aged 72.
Irene Louise Maguire, died 06/03/2017, aged 76.
Please note that the information above is provided by HR and this can sometimes mean the list is not completely up-to-date. We also receive a very limited amount of information on each person and we are restricted to details of officers only.
Artist in the ranks 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
DC Paul Meadows from CTU creates personalised cartoons to order for people’s retirements, birthdays or any other special event. Tel: 0161 85 60056, Mobile: 07827 979106.
PCSO Jane Barrett “I am writing to praise you on your fine PCSO’s. Jane came on a home visit after my daughter was assaulted. She dealt with the situation very sensitively and was so supportive to my daughter. She also followed up on the case and gave us excellent advice. She was easy to talk to and has great people skills readily putting people at ease. She is a credit to the Force. My girls now feel very different about the police. They see Jane out and about and she is always welcoming to them. Thank you once again Jane.” Roger Pegram and Andrea Caine “Can I please pass on my thanks to GMP especially Roger and Andrea. Both are volunteers within the executive committee of the SEBP (evidence based policing), now operating as a charity. Apart from both playing an active role throughout the year mobilising people to become more interested in what worksthey have been instrumental in
organising the latest conference held in Northampton. Andrea especially has been the organisational back-bone and is such a credit to GMP. She worked really well influencing sponsors, facilities and the rest of us to make it a great success. The conference was a sell out with speakers coming from around the world. Thank you for GMP’s continued practice in this area.” PC Paul Spinks “Hi, just wanted to pass on my thanks to the police, St. John's and passers by who helped me at mile 22. I don't remember what happened and completely blacked out, the support was there in no time at all and fixed me up. They were so good I was even able to get up and finish the race, not the time I was hoping for but a more meaningful finish than I've had before. I can't remember the names of all the people who helped me but the officer wrote his details on the back of my race number. Please could you pass on my sincere thanks and appreciation to the people who
fixed me up - they're the people who make events like this so special! Kind regards Alex.” DC Matt Tarr “On 2nd March I was involved in an off duty incident in the Adswood area of Stockport. I would like to pass on my gratitude to the professionalism of the officers involved. In particular Detective Matt Tarr who I witnessed orchestrate the investigation as he managed all officers, forensic and medical staff involved whilst making sure that my needs were met and the support that I clearly needed on the day was provided. As a serving officer myself I have witnessed the difficulties first hand that officers face especially when incidents such as the one I was involved in was spontaneous and required immediate attention. DC Tarr and his team was truly genuine, I would like to commend and state that they are an asset to you, your team, the division and the service, not to mention the public they serve. Thank you and please pass on my gratitude.”
Letters
Letters of Appreciation
Family Liaison Officer PC Rae Willis Supporting a family after a father of two was killed.
“Rae, From my perspective you have been amazing and went far beyond anything I would have expected. My role as the 'ex wife' was supporting Bex and Alex and being there for them 24/7 over the last 14 months “We've always been a close family and remain to be so. You have been there for everyone and I really don't know how you did it. I know you are supporting other families but you made it feel that we were always your number one priority any time of the day or night “The support you've given to me so that I could in turn support Alex and Bex has been immense. “I really could not have got through this without your interventions and support. I owe you a great debt of gratitude Rae and I find it difficult to explain how wonderful you have been in words. “You always responded, always wanting to be there whether you were on shift or not. “For me your professionalism and caring approach means that you should be held as a role model for your peers. You are an exemplar Rae and I appreciate it more than I can ever express. “What makes you different is that as you once said, you want to do all in your power to help families in time of crisis - you have a true passion for what you do and it shows.”
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GMP Life
Schools get in the saddle
The Mounted Unit have created an adoption scheme where schools within Greater Manchester can pick their favourite horse and receive their own personal adoption pack and certificate. They then receive regular updates on what their horse has been up to and also receive a visit from officers and horses. The scheme was created in order to help build relationships with the general public where confidence in the police may be low or relationships strained. The scheme gives officers the opportunity to engage with the children and show them that the police are here to help them. Horses are a great engagement tool and it also gives officers the chance to relay any safety messages. The adoption scheme helps younger children feel that the police are approachable and here to help. While promoting the “It’s Not Okay” campaign, the unit held visits at Hough End for children who might be at risk, attended schools and care homes to raise awareness around child sexual exploitation. If you have a school on your beat that might be interested in adopting one of the horses, or want a safety issue to be addressed in an engaging and fun way, please contact the Mounted Unit on ext 61793.
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A right royal send-off GMP mounted officers Alistair McKittrick and John Bradshaw took part in the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, to mark their commitment to the Mounted Unit and celebrate their upcoming retirement. On 17 March the two GMP officers went to London to visit the Metropolitan Police Mounted Unit, who provide support at the Changing of the Guard and monitor the crowds of people who turn up for the occasion.
Alistair enthused: “It was a fantastic day and a complete surprise but we had such a lovely time.” He is due to retire in the summer and explains “I feel so lucky to have worked for the Mounted Unit for 25 years, I’ve loved it. I will really miss GMP, my horse Oliver and my colleagues, but I know it is time for me to go.” John describes being part of Changing of the Guard as: “Something that I will never forget, it was an honour and a privilege.” He goes on to
explain, “I am still so excited about it, when I think about it I get a huge smile on my face and I know that will never change.” Chief Inspector Tariq Butt explained; “It’s not just a farewell gift, they’ve invested so many years with the unit and I wanted to show them how much we appreciate that.”
What do you think of your wife joining the Specials? Tracey kept saying that she wished Traffic CI Haydn Roberts recently What has been the best bits? she had joined the police as a 20retired from GMP just as his wife My career in GMP has enabled me something and thought the opportunity Tracey signed up to be a Special. We to help individuals and communities at was gone. We talked about trying the joined them for one of their few days every rank. I have been able to develop specials with a view to becoming a on the beat together and interviewed specific projects from, mass property regular. I knew what a rewarding career Haydn to find out more. marking schemes across 1000’s of policing had been for me and the houses, to projects to prevent child satisfaction I have had from helping Why did you join policing? sexual exploitation and grooming into people and protecting communities I I joined 30 years ago to make a organised crime gangs. want her to experience it as well. I am difference to the community. I have now My time at traffic though, as a so proud of her. been a Chief Inspector for seven years. You can also access these discounts in store by purchasing the Blue Light “High Street Card”. The card costs just £4.99 for a five year membership and THE Discount Guru Savings for lifesavers can be used in stores such as Apple, is here to reveal the GMP officers and staff can sign up to Vodafone, New Look and Go Outdoors. secret discounts 100s of online discounts via Please note all cards will be delivered to and money saving tips that GMP Bluelightcard.co.uk. It is free to register a work address only. staff are entitled to. Join us in each and you can get up to 30% off To sign up and for more information edition of Brief to see where you purchases including electricals, holidays visit www.bluelightcard.co.uk could save a few pennies. and food and drink.
The Discount Guru
Delivering dreams PCs Jon Gorton and Lee Watkinson from the Road Policing Unit East visited a severely disabled boy in Cardiff to make his day. Travelling over 400 miles on their day off, they made their way to Cardiff to give John Morgan an old police issue cap for his collection and to celebrate his 18th birthday with his family. John has a condition called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, he also has a severe curvature to his spine and is confined to a very heavy electric wheelchair. This is a life limiting condition with a life expectancy of mid-twenties. Being a massive fan of the emergency services, John makes regular visits to see the police, fire and ambulance. He is attempting to beat a Guinness World Record for his collection of emergency services memorabilia. His special birthday event was attended by South Wales police, mounted unit, firearms, fire and rescue service, who all donated an item. John is aiming to raise £7,000 to buy a new wheelchair accessible mini bus with heating in the back where John sits in his wheelchair. You can view his JustGiving page here.
GMP Life
Wedded to policing
constable and a Chief Inspector, were my highlights. Contributing to GMP road policing, and it being rated as ‘excellent and improving’ by the HMIC, was a stand out moment. In terms of working with Specials, when I was on Traffic I developed the employer supported special constable scheme known as ‘BusWatch Specials’ where bus company employees became special constables and patrolled the public transport network. This became the Travel Safe Initiative.
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GMP Life
Well and truly hooked
ON the tranquil banks of the Ladybower Reservoir stood a troop of GMP employees learning the ropes of fly fishing. During two sessions on Saturday 4 March, instructors provided a three hour lesson to 20 officers and staff from across the force, which taught them the basics of fly fishing and provided them with information on how to get into the sport. These sessions also
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promoted fly fishing as a means to increase mental wellbeing; something GMP are trying to focus on for its staff, by escaping from stress and unwind in natural, calm surroundings. Organiser George Rawling said: “The feedback from participants is not only of how much they enjoyed the day and praise on how well the event was run, but the message on wellbeing also seems to have stuck home as many commented on how good it was to just get away from it all and how relaxing they found fly fishing to be.” Due to its popularity, there will be future taster sessions and also, at the request of the
participants at this initial session, there will be a second event aimed at advancing them further…. another 20 anglers well and truly hooked! To find out more information or if you would like to attend contact George.Rawling@gmp.police. uk
It’s a knockout... Officers from GMP are taking part in the Battle of the Forces boxing challenge to raise money for the PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund. Officers taking part include: Paul Evans, Waqar Ahmed, Joseph Hurst, Lauren Bridge, Natalie Whalen and Scott Dowell. The event will be held on 22 April and tickets can be purchased for £20 from paul.evans@gmp.police.uk
forgotten OFFICERS and staff at Rochdale have remembered a fallen officer with opening of The Ray Codling Memorial Library. They have created a peaceful area for officers and staff to come to relax and reflect. Holding a variety of books and information with comfy sofas, this tranquil area has been created in the memory of Ray by his fellow Rochdale colleagues. On 14 September 1989, Sergeant James Bowden and Inspector Ray Codling, aged 49, were responding to the call of a suspicious driver at Birch motorway service station near Heywood. Ray was subsequently shot and killed in a seemingly unprovoked attack. The shooter Anthony Hughes from Baguley later killed himself before he could be arrested, leaving his motive for the murder unknown.
Chief Superintendent Chris Sykes, Ray’s widow Linda and James Bowden.
Target
Mark said: "It's been a huge effort and we've raised more than we could have imagined. This is the result of the dedication and hard work of our entire team and those who've supported our efforts.
SMASHED
Police in Salford have raised a staggering ÂŁ11,500 to buy three new beds for St Ann's Hospice at Little Hulton. The donation is more than triple the fundraising target set by the Salford division when it nominated St Ann's as its chosen charity a year ago. Police officers and staff have volunteered in their own time to make the campaign a resounding success, organising countless events at stations in Swinton, Eccles, Little Hulton and Pendleton and in the community. PCSOs Janet Cassidy and Angela Haycock and staff colleague Lesley Gough have played a leading role, alongside Superintendent Mark Kenny.
"I'm extremely proud of what we've achieved and crucially we've helped patients at St Ann's Hospice which does such marvellous work in the community." Over the 12 months they held many fund raising activities both large and small. Events included the Manchester Midnight Walk, fashion
show, Christmas fair, football tournament, book signing by former SAS soldier Andy McNab and a bucket collection at Salford FC match to name just a few. Hospice Clinical Services Manager Sian Burgess said: "We're grateful for the kind support of GMP Salford for their terrific fundraising efforts over the last 12 months. "With constant use our specialist beds only last a certain length of time before they cost more in repairs therefore we have a replacement programme over the next few years. It's important our patients are as comfortable as possible during their stay and this generous donation is a significant help."
GMP Life
Gone but not
Sup Mark Kenny and team at the cheque handover
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GMP paid tribute to PC Keith Palmer who lost his life in the line of duty at Westminster on Wednesday 22 March 2017.
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