Chief Superintendent Tim Forber (Photo: Stuart Coleman©2011)
Police in Oldham are wishing the community of Saddleworth and visitors a fun but safe time during this weekends’ festivities.
The annual Saddleworth Band Contests will take place across Saddleworth on 1 June 2012 from around 4pm.
Chief Superintendent Tim Forber, Oldham Divisional Commander said: “This popular annual family event attracts a large number of visitors into the area each year and this is great to see. The contest is an opportunity to showcase everything that is great about the area and has taken months of planning by everybody involved. The Band Contest is a family event and is part of the culture and heritage of the area and the policing style will reflect this.”
“In recent years a small minority of people have marred the event by drinking in excess and behaving antisocially. Law-abiding residents are reassured that officers will take swift action against anyone involved in alcohol related antisocial behaviour so that everybody can enjoy the event peacefully.”
During the band contest extra officers will be out to patrol the area and reassure the community. Police have worked with partners including, local schools, Oldham Council, youth services and GMPTE in an effort to deter incidents of violence and antisocial behaviour during the event. The work includes letters and text alerts being issued to parents to make them aware of their responsibilities and any actions that will be taken should any offences be committed.
Chief Superintendent Forber added: “I would also like to remind parents of their responsibilities. Know where your children are and ensure they stay safe.”
If you have any queries or concerns please contact the team on 0161 856 4524 or email Greater Manchester Police at: saddleworthandlees.npt@gmp.police.co.uk. Residents can also follow us on Twitter; @GMPSaddleworth.
For further information and advice please follow this link to a video of Chief Superintendent Tim Forber issuing safety messages around the event http://youtu.be/W9TsMtVb5bI
