Disgruntled Hyde residents demand police action

Hyde residents have taken to social media in protest against a recent upsurge of crime in the area.

This comes after what was described as a 'horrific and frightening' incident on Hyde Market at the end of August.

Mobile footage saw balaclava-clad armed bikers, driving 'recklessly and dangerously', wreaking havoc across the market and appearing to attack a man who challenged them.

A van driver who's vehicle was hit by the youths as they fled the scene has also spoken out on Facebook.

"I've just had enough," he wrote.

"I have had my motorbike nearly stolen three times. My girlfriend and I are awake at any noise, living in fear they will come back and take what we work hard for.

"I've since gained information of the four boys involved who are all aged 15-18. These names will be passed on to the police when they come to take a statement."

Concerned residents have shared that they are 'deeply troubled' by the constant illegal behaviour.

"Those who saw the video or witnessed the event were terrorised to the extent that some elderly are now afraid to use the market," one resident said.

Another added: “I am tired of feeling vulnerable when out and about, seeing the hurt these gangs are causing. People shouldn’t have to feel this way.

“They’re wielding weapons at old people whilst children watch, covering their faces throughout. They’re not big men, they’re stupid little boys who will only be stopped if we all stand up and stand together.”

Margaret, who started the online petition, said that the aim is to address the 'pressing issue' that threatens the safety and wellbeing of the community.

"This is not an isolated incident," she claimed.

"It is happening around all towns in Tameside and, in particular, Gee Cross. It is becoming common to witness such alarming behaviour on our streets.

"Seeing these individuals terrorising our community without consequence or regard for the safety of others is so disheartening, it has to stop before someone gets killed or badly injured."

The petition is urging police to be 'proactive, not reactive' and they are wanting to reclaim the safety of their streets & restore the town to the peaceful community that it was.

Margaret has confirmed that as she gathers more signatures she will be approaching local MPs and the Tameside Neighbourhood GMP teams to demand further action and strategies for the ongoing problems.

Councillor Betty Affleck said: "We work hard to support stallholders, businesses and residents with any issues and are always happy to discuss any concerns with them.

"Criminal and intimidating behaviour is not acceptable and we want everyone to feel safe when visiting our town centres. We will of course continue to support Greater Manchester Police with any investigations and reducing anti-social behaviour in Hyde.

"If you witness a crime or emergency, please do call the police on 101 or report online. If you think someone is in immediate danger, please call 999.

"Residents can also sign up to ‘Bee in the loop’ which is a new community messaging system as part of the GMP   model. The StreetSafe App is also available, where residents can report safety concerns in public places such as poorly lit streets, vandalism and instances where you feel unsafe due to someone following or verbally abusing you."

GMP have also been approached for a quote.