‘Successful operation’ pleases police chief

CHIEF Superintendent Tim Forber was at the heart of the police operation to make sure the band contests ran smoothly.

And after incidents at only one of the 12 events — Uppermill — the Oldham police chief declared the operation “very sucessful”.

He said: “The vast majority who come to the contests come to enjoy the bands, with many coming back every year and I hope they enjoyed their evening.

“Those who have been arrested have been dealt with very robustly.

“The event had a great family atmosphere in Uppermill, but at around 9pm there were about 300 to 400 people in Uppermill Park, with a number drunk and causing anti-social behaviour.

“Bottles were thrown and fireworks were set off near our horses. The Tactical Aid Unit had to be called in to assist.”

Nine people ended up in custody — which included four who were arrested relating to a burglary on the canal towpath, near Uppermill Park, in the early evening.

Chief Supt Forber said: “This is a family friendly event and 98 per cent of the people are upstanding members of the community who come to enjoy what is a significant event in the Oldham calendar.

“We do not want a small bunch of idiots to ruin it for them.”




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