Calling time on trouble

INCREASED security . . . Insp Dave Stopford

POLICE chiefs have moved to reassure Failsworth drinkers that they are calling time on troublemakers after a spate of violent incidents.

Officers say they are working closely with licensees to ensure revellers have a safe and happy night out.

There will be increased security and patrols this weekend while landlords are being urged to join the area’s Pub Watch scheme to help stamp out trouble.

Inspector Dave Stopford, of the Failsworth and Hollinwood Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We have developed excellent relationships with all the Pub Watch members and want this to continue.

“We also want to ensure that all licensed premises provide a safe and welcoming environment for drinkers and encourage other landlords to join the scheme.”

CCTV and airport-style security arches that detect weapons are some of the security measures that have been put in place.

A Good Samaritan is fighting for his life in hospital after hitting his head on the road during a fight outside the Sun Inn, Oldham Road, at around 6.50pm on Saturday. He had intervened in an argument between a 10-strong gang and another man and fell to the floor after punches were thrown.

Police are also hunting a gang of youths who left a 34-year-old man with a fractured skull and bleeding to the brain on his way home from The Lamb Inn, Oldham Road, at midnight on February 21.

Pub Watch is a nationwide scheme to improve communication between landlords and police. To set up a Pub Watch scheme, call Peter Lee on 0161-856 9054.