Reassurance offered to the public following car horror

Members of the public are being reassured that the incident in Rochdale town centre in the early hours of Sunday (17 October 2010) morning is an “isolated case.”

Superintendent Chris Hankinson, for Rochdale Division, said: “The incident on Sunday 17 October was a random attack and an isolated crime. Rochdale has a thriving night time economy and its success over the years has been thanks to the support of our partners which includes the Town Centre management team who together work hard to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the communities and visitors to Rochdale town centre.

“To support the number visitors coming into the town centre in the evening our officers continue to work on Operation Aegis, this sees patrols increased in the town centre at key times during the weekend. It includes a joint initiative to ensure door supervisors are correctly licensed in accordance with the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA carries out identity and criminal record checks on everyone applying for a license. Drinkers found taking alcohol onto the streets in the town centre are reminded of the alcohol exclusion zone in place across the borough.

“I would also like offer assurance to the community about the growing numbers of town centre bars and clubs that are members of the Pub and Clubwatch schemes. We want to provide Rochdale’s night clubbers with a safe and secure environment in which to drink and socialise as we know that drunk and unruly behaviour is bad for business. CCTV cameras are used across the Borough.”

Mark Foxley, chairman of Rochdale Pub and Club Watch, said: “The Town Centre Pub watch members meet regularly with public safety a key topic. In addition a separate ABS (Acceptable Behaviour Scheme) committee meet monthly and ban individuals who cause trouble or are disruptive. Each night there is communication between venues and the CCTV control room to ensure people have a great night out.

“I would like to praise all of the staff and licensees that were there on Sunday morning. They conducted themselves in a professional manner while attending the injured until the arrival of the emergency services. We would also like to wish all those that have been injured a speedy recovery.”

Daisy Edwards, licensing officer for Rochdale Division, said: “The police and licensing authority work very hard with licensees to make the town centre a safe environment. Regular compliance checks are made and in addition to the Pubwatch and banning schemes as well as the Best Bar None activities to ensure the safety of all visitors to the town centre.”

Debbie O’Brien, Town Centre Manager for Rochdale, said: “The Best Bar None (BBN) scheme has been running for three years and is aimed at promoting responsible management and operation of alcohol-licensed premises with the ultimate intention of offering and maintaining a safer, more welcoming, attractive and lively drinking experience. Nine venues currently hold BBN accreditation, with the next round due to take place shortly. We also have a radio system in place which allows venues to have immediate contact with the police, CCTV and other venues.”

Councillor Keith Swift, portfolio holder for skills and economic recovery for Rochdale, said: “Rochdale town centre is normally a peaceful and safe place to be at all hours of the day and night. All partners in the borough work closely with licensed premises to deliver a welcoming atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.”