Police praised for snow performance

Greater Manchester Police’s Chief Constable has praised his officers and police staff for going the extra mile in the face of the most extreme weather conditions the region has seen for years.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams worked around the clock to help stranded residents, providing supplies, helping to clear pathways and digging people out who had become stuck in their vehicles.

Many officers and police staff donned their wellies and walked to work to ensure services were maintained, with one member of staff even running seven miles to get to the office.

Call handlers struggled through deep snow and some walked over five miles to get to the Force’s headquarters to make sure emergency calls were dealt with.

In Rochdale, the Countryside Ranger service lent police 4x4 vehicles to help them respond to emergencies, enabling officers to get to residents who would otherwise be impossible to reach.

Police have even been able to use the snow to catch criminals. Officers arrested two men for trying to break into vehicles parked on driveways after following their footprints in the snow. Another wanted offender was put behind bars after his footprints led officers to the house where he was hiding.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: “The way officers and police staff have reacted to this weather has been commendable, they have really done themselves proud. The dedication and perseverance they’ve shown is incredible and is testimony to the commitment and passion they bring to serving the people of Greater Manchester.

"I would like to reassure the public that we will attend all emergencies however our response vehicles could also be hindered by the adverse weather conditions and it may take us a little longer to get you.

"I would also ask that you seriously consider the need to contact the emergency services before dialing 999, ensuring that we can focus on the people who need us the most."

Police are asking the public to only call 999 in an emergency, where there is a threat to life or a crime in progress.

Police are also advising people to only make necessary journeys and to take extra care when driving.