Councillors in Edgeley have appealed for a greater police presence on Castle Street following reports of intimidation, anti-social behaviour and racist abuse involving groups of young people in the area.
Local councillors Asa Caton, Matt Wynne and Jess Meller have launched an appeal for residents to report incidents amid a growing number of reports. They described the reported behaviour as going beyond what they called “typical teenage mischief” and said the reports of intimidation and racist abuse were 'unacceptable'.
Reports of incidents involving young people
The youngsters, believed to be aged around 12 and above, have reportedly been involved in incidents that have raised concerns among the community. Residents have been urged to report any behaviour that crosses the line to Greater Manchester Police (GMP), with an emphasis on identifying racist abuse as a hate crime when making a report.
Residents have also been asked not to film young people, share footage on social media or confront them directly, with warnings that doing so could 'escalate tensions'. Parents and carers have been encouraged to check in with their children if they are out after dark and their whereabouts are unclear.
Community reaction and councillors' statement
The statement was shared on Facebook, where residents voiced their concerns. One local wrote: "Yes last night they were outside coop abuse to people. Throwing stuff about. No this is not normal".
The full statement posted on Facebook reads: "We’ve had reports of a group of young people, around 12 and up, gathering on Castle Street. Most of it is the usual teenage mischief. We all did it, and goodness knows there isn’t much for young people to do these days. We wish that were different, and we’re working on it."
It continues: "But some of what’s been reported has gone further: intimidation, anti-social behaviour and racist abuse. That isn’t acceptable, and the people on the receiving end are often just trying to get to work or get home. We’ve asked for more police presence in the area, and we need your help to point them in the right direction. If you see behaviour that crosses the line, please report it. You can ring 101 or report online at https://www.gmp.police.uk/.../ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/."
"It isn’t always quick or convenient, but reports are what let the police see a pattern and act on it. If someone is in danger or a crime is happening right now, ring 999. Racist abuse can be reported as a hate crime, and please say so when you report it. Please don’t film, post about or confront young people yourself, as that tends to make things worse."
"Parents and carers, if your children are out after dark and you’re not sure where they are, it’s worth a quick check-in. Kids will be kids, and we don't want this to be a pile on, because most kids around here are well behaved, but respect for other people is where we draw the line."
