Payback time for offenders

OFFENDERS have been keeping town centre streets snow-free and safe.

Teams worked in freezing conditions to shovel snow away and grit pathways and pavements.

Their work is part of Community Payback, a punishment imposed for breaking the law which is rigorously supervised and enforced by probation.

Councillor Rod Blyth said: “This initiative shows that Community Payback can be of real benefit to the local community — and the extra assistance is invaluable as our staff continue their work to keep the borough moving.”

Stephen Cope, community operations manager for Oldham, added: “We’ve been working with Oldham Council for the past year ensuring offenders put something back into their community. The priority at the moment is obviously to make roads and pavements as safe as possible.

“Offenders will help with this work for as long as is needed.”

Members of the public are encouraged to recommend projects for Community Payback by calling 0161-620 4421.