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Rochdale’s initiative during the festive period, Operation Elf, targeted problems of burglary, robbery, theft from person, vehicle crime and violence in the town centre. It resulted in 42 fewer crimes compared to the same period the previous year. Launched on December 1, it saw officers walking through stores and offer reassurance to store management and security.

Inspector Lin Houldershaw for Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “These reductions reflect the commitment and hard work our officers and staff put in to serving the people of our community during a very busy time of year. The Neighbourhood Policing Teams have also done some sterling work in reassuring both our businesses and residents.

“As a team we have also detected 88 per cent of all crimes committed which is great news. We hope this will reassure the public that their town is a safe place to be.”

During the initiative the police pod was located at the Butts in the town centre where shoppers were given home security and safety advice. Pedal cycles, headcams and town link radios were also used by officers to detect and reduce crime.

High visibility patrols took place during the evenings and early-intervention tactics were used to reduce disorder in the town centre. Stop checks were made and fixed penalty notices were issued for disorderly behaviour.

Residents are reminded to contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team for any policing issues:

Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Norden, Healey, Bamford, Central, Town Centre, Spotland and Falinge on 0161 856 9961 / rochdalenorthpartnership@gmp.police.uk

Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Kingsway, Castleton, Milkstone and Deeplish, Balderstone and Kirkholt on 0161 856 8549 / rochdalesouthpartnship@gmp.police.uk

Middleton Neighbourhood Policing Team covering North, South, East and West Middleton on 0161 856 8701 / middletonpartnership@gmp.police.uk

Heywood Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Hopwood Hall, West and North Heywood on 0161 856 8589 / heywoodpartnership@gmp.police.uk

Pennine Neighbourhood Policing Team covering Littleborough Lakeside, Wardle and West Littleborough, Smallbridge and Firgrove and Milnrow and Newhey on 0161 856 4556 / pennineparnership@gmp.police.uk

Only call 999 in an emergency or where there is a threat to life or a crime in progress.

To report crime call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit gmp.police.uk.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.