Multiple arrests and traffic offences actioned: GMP’s Special Constabulary mark 195th birthday with day of action in Ashton

Yesterday (Thursday 15 October 2026) marked the 195th anniversary of the Special Constabulary Act given royal assent, which allows the use, appointment and operation of special constables in England and Wales.

The day saw around 40 special officers from across Greater Manchester, supported by neighbourhood officers and traffic officers, working together to tackle crimes that most matter in Ashton, Tameside in a dedicated day of action.

Officers provided crime prevention advice to local businesses, including a stall in Ashton market, and engaged with the local community, offering reassurance and a highly visible presence.

With a focus on retail crime and anti-social behaviour in the area, several arrests were made on suspicion of theft, drug offences and a wanted person for breaching their court order, while two missing people were located and an e-bike and e-scooter were seized. Other results included:

• Public Spaces Protection Order enforcement activity
• 11 compliance visits carried out with Trading Standards and Environmental Health
• 1 Traffic Offence Report (TOR) issued for a vehicle causing an obstruction

A traffic operation on Manchester Road was also a success. Overall, 73 vehicles were stopped by officers, working with our partners from Tameside Licensing and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, leading to four window tints being removed at the roadside and multiple TORs being issued for:

• 4x for seatbelt offences
• 1 x mobile use
• 6x non-conforming registration plates
• 1 x non-conforming registration plate through the Vehicle Defect Rectification Scheme
• 2 x vehicle seizures and TOR
• 1 x PG9 seized and TOR for vehicle in dangerous condition
• 2 x rear lights not maintained TOR
• 1 x TOR for TV within sight of driver

Special Constables, have all the powers and authorities of a regular Police Officer, and play a key part in the work Greater Manchester Police (GMP) do to keep people safe across the region through volunteering in their spare time.

GMP is always looking for individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds to join our specials. Being a Special Constable allows you to bring along and transfer relevant skills, experience, and knowledge from your day job and/or previous life experience and give something back to the communities of Greater Manchester.

If you’re interested in joining, apply here - Special constables – GMP Careers