Joint effort to rid town of teenage tearaways

SHAW market - scene of scuffles

A crisis point over antisocial behaviour in Shaw has prompted an emergency meeting between police and councillors.

The meeting between police, Councillor Rod Blyth and Councillors John and Philomena Dillon omn Monday took the first steps towards a solution, and on Tuesday a local community forum resolved to continue talks.

Councillor Blyth told the meeting: “We have to let people know we are taking action - but this isn’t going to be a quick fix.”

On Saturday evening a 29-year-old man was stabbed as he walked through the market. Matthew Paul Gregory (21) has been charged with wounding with intent and possession of a knife.

Councillor Blyth also cited the problem of youths travelling to Shaw on the tram - without tickets - and causing trouble.

He said: “That needs to be policed better by Metrolink, it can’t shirk its responsibilities.”
Police are in a joint initiative with Metrolink inspectors to control the problem.