Co-operation is key to crime-fighting

BEWARE . . . Co-op staff model their T-shirts with (back, from left) PCSOs Vicky Foden, Rebecca Wright and Joanna Haigh. PC Dave Phillips is also pictured

BREAD, milk . . . and some handy tips to combat car crime — it’s all under one roof at the Co-op in Moorside.

Staff at the Ripponden Road store are wearing T-shirts warning shoppers to beware of thieves and follow simple advice to avoid becoming a victim of car crime. Sergeant Cherie Dunn, of the Oldham East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Thousands of people pass through the Co-operative’s doors each week giving us an ideal opportunity to raise awareness and help reduce the risk of the community falling victim to this crime. Thieves are always on the lookout for an easy opportunity.

“By removing valuables from cars, parking in a secure place and making sure doors and windows are locked, people can stop themselves becoming a victim of crime.” Store manager Amanda Atkinson added: “As a consumer-owned retailer committed to supporting our local community, we are delighted to be joining with Greater Manchester Police in its initiative to raise awareness about theft from cars.”