Police: Heywood disturbances are “unacceptable”

The disturbances in Heywood last night have been condemned as “unacceptable.”

The incidents saw around 200 people, including many youths, gather in Heywood town centre. Missiles were thrown at police, windows of a takeaway were damaged and one officer was injured.

Two arrests were made and police say they are now viewing CCTV and are planning to make arrests “where appropriate.”

Superintendent Chris Hankinson, based at Rochdale, said: "First, I would like to say that last night’s incidents in Heywood are unacceptable.

“We are currently viewing CCTV images from last night and we plan to make arrests where appropriate. We will take the same robust approach with any other incidents that may occur.

“I want to reassure the communities of both Heywood and Rochdale that an increased police presence will be out on the streets in the coming days to prevent any repeat of last night’s scenes.

“Secondly, I want to stress that there is a long history of partnership and community cohesion in the borough of Rochdale and no incidents of disorder will break that.

“We are aware of the tensions in the borough that have come about because of an ongoing court case in Liverpool and I am unable to make any comments about this particular case.

“I also want to stress once again that all of the business premises involved in the ongoing trial are now under new ownership.

“We have been working with our partners at Rochdale Council and partner agencies to ensure that any businesses or homes that could be targeted as a result of ongoing tensions are provided with crime prevention advice and support.

“This will be reviewed on a daily basis as we pass into the weekend and into next week.

“We are continuing to monitor social media sites and ask anybody who is concerned or has information to share with us to go either through their local Neighbourhood Policing Team, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by GMP using the 101 service." 

Colin Lambert, Leader of Rochdale Borough Council added: “I love Heywood, as all residents do. The vast majority are law abiding people and the whole community condemns this behaviour.”

“The police did a sterling job last night in ensuring these incidents by a very small minority caused minimum disruption to businesses and residents. I strongly urge the local community to show restraint.”

“We will not allow the actions of a criminal minority to damage the excellent community relations that this borough has built up over the years.”

“The business premises involved in the ongoing trial are now under new ownership and I strongly warn people against jumping to conclusions and seeking some form of retribution. There is no excuse for violence from any section of the community.”


http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/67008/missiles-thrown-at-police-in-heywood-disturbance