RBH chiefs hand over van to Special Constables

Divisional Commander Terry Sweeney, RBH Managing Director Paul Neate, Special Constable Inspector Dave Jones, RBH Vice-Chair Derek Brown

Rochdale Boroughwide Housing chiefs have handed over a much-needed new van to the Special Constables at Rochdale Station. 

The van will be used to deploy officers all over the 63 square miles of the borough and is used in a variety of crime-reduction initiatives, for example, where the Specials help combat vehicle crime, burglary and anti-social behaviour.   The Division as a whole is progressing well in these areas, with burglary falling by over 12% and violent crime by 9%.  The Special Constables have played a vital role in contributing to this.

Divisional Commander, Terry Sweeney said: “Rochdale is quite unique inasmuch as the Borough covers the vast open spaces of the Pennines, through to the vibrant town centres of Middleton, Heywood, and Rochdale.  The vehicle that RBH have provided us with is an essential resource, which we are extremely grateful for, and moreover, this gesture signifies just how committed our partners are in helping us to fight crime and protect people”.

Paul Neate, Managing Director of RBH explained the reason behind the support: “RBH have been involved with the Specials for many years, having had a Special Constable amongst our own housing staff.  We have for the past three years assisted the Police in leasing them a van, but decided this year to support them by buying a new van outright, liveried in both organisation's colours.

"We have an excellent relationship with the Police, who work closely with us in working to improve the quality of life on our estates.  We are keen to foster this relationship and are glad that this addition to their fleet will help them further their essential work in the community."