Cracking on with cracking crime

YOUNG crime fighters have been given £500 to help them bring offenders to justice.

The area’s Neighbourhood Youth Watch — one of the first in Greater Manchester — has received the money from Chadderton Home Watch.

The eight to 16-year-olds take part in monthly walkabouts with the police, hand out crime prevention advice and have completed workshops on how to report crime.

The money will be used to buy video cameras so they can record vandalism, graffiti and fly-tipping, as well as waterproof jackets and ID cards.

The scheme was set up by PCSO Jane Smith and the environmental charity Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale Rochdale.

Jane explained: “It gives young people the opportunity to have a positive impact in their community and help police make their area a safer place to live.

“It also gives us the chance to build relationships with them and answer any questions they may have about the police and the role of Neighbourhood Policing Teams.

“As well as educating them about crime prevention, we are finding out what their concerns are and inspiring them to care about their community.”

The team meets monthly at South Chadderton Methodist Church, Thompson Lane.


To join contact Jane on 0161-856 8825 or Dawn on 0161-624 1444.