Platform for tram trouble

SWOOP . . . Metrolink staff, flanked by police, issue fines to fare dodgers at the Failsworth stop

OVER 60 fines were issued to fare-dodging youths at Failsworth tram stop in a clampdown on unruly youngsters.

Metrolink staff patrolled Failsworth tram stop issuing fines to youths without tickets. Mounted police were also stationed in the car park at Tesco. The round-up by police, council officers and tram bosses Transport for Greater Manchester was hailed as a “raging success”.

Residents had complained that Hardman Lane and the area around Tesco had become a magnet for trouble as large gangs of youths gathered there. Incidents of objects being thrown at passing cars and trams and smashed windows and threats had been reported to police.

The official action has led to a large decrease in anti-social behaviour and has been met with widespread support by residents.

Sergeant Clem Jones, of Oldham Division, said: “A lot of hard work has gone into this and it has been a huge success. Both staff from Metrolink and the police worked together, issuing over 60 tickets for non-payment of fares and deterring youths from entering the area.”