Key Points
- Angela Rayner, Ashton-under-Lyne MP, along with Greater Manchester Police officers and special constables, joined in a day of action around town.
- The operation targeted retail crime, anti-social behavior, and community safety issues.
- Forty Special Constables from Greater Manchester were involved along with neighborhood and traffic officers.
- Some arrests were made on suspicion of stealing and possession of drugs, while an arrest was made of a wanted individual for breach of court order.
- Two individuals were found who were reported missing, while one e-bike and one e-scooter were confiscated.
- The teams also gave crime prevention information to various businesses and engaged with the local residents and shoppers.
- The day celebrated the 195th anniversary of Special Constabulary Act getting the royal assent.
Ashton-under-Lyne (Manchester Mirror) October 29, 2026 — Ashton-under-Lyne’s MP joined Greater Manchester Police for a town-centre day of action focused on retail crime, anti-social behaviour and community safety, according to Tameside Correspondent reporter Erin Parker.
As reported by Tameside Correspondent, Ms Rayner joined regular police officers and Special Constables as they carried out a visible policing operation across the town centre. The activity included engagement with residents, shoppers and local businesses, alongside crime-prevention advice.
The operation brought together approximately 40 Special Constables from across Greater Manchester. They were supported by neighbourhood and traffic officers during the coordinated day of action.
Who took part in the police operation?
The day involved Greater Manchester Police officers, Special Constables, neighbourhood officers and traffic officers. Special Constables are volunteer officers who hold the same powers and authorities as regular police officers, according to the report.
Ms Rayner, the MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, attended the operation and spoke with officers on the frontline. Tameside Correspondent reported that she observed the issues police address daily in the town centre.
The event also coincided with the 195th anniversary of the Special Constabulary Act receiving Royal Assent. That legislation established the legal basis for appointing and operating Special Constables in England and Wales.
What arrests and seizures were made?
Officers made several arrests during the operation. Tameside Correspondent reported that these included arrests on suspicion of theft and drug offences, as well as the arrest of a wanted person for breaching a court order.
Police also located two missing people during the day of action. In addition, officers seized an e-bike and an e-scooter.
The report did not identify those arrested, specify the number of arrests, or provide details of any charges. It also did not state whether the seized e-bike and e-scooter were connected to a particular offence.
What did Angela Rayner say?
As reported by Tameside Correspondent, Ms Rayner said:
“It was great to join officers on the frontline and see firsthand the kind of issues they tackle on a daily basis.”
She added:
“For almost two centuries, Special Constables have played a vital role in policing our towns and neighbourhoods. They volunteer alongside regular police officers, often balancing their duties with full-time jobs, family commitments and other responsibilities. That commitment deserves our recognition and our thanks.”
Ms Rayner also said:
“I know how important it is for people to feel safe in their town centre, on their streets and in the places where they live, work and spend time with their families.”
According to Tameside Correspondent, she said:
“The Special Constabulary makes a real difference to that sense of safety and reassurance. Whether supporting local policing, engaging with residents or helping at community events, Special Constables are an important link between the police and the communities they serve.”
She concluded:
“As we celebrate this remarkable 195-year history, we should also recognise the values that have sustained it: public service, dedication and a genuine desire to make a difference.”
Why was the day of action held?
The operation was designed to increase police visibility in Ashton-under-Lyne town centre while addressing retail crime, anti-social behaviour and community-safety concerns. Officers also used the opportunity to speak directly with businesses, residents and shoppers.
The timing coincided with the 195th anniversary of the Special Constabulary Act receiving Royal Assent. The anniversary provided a context for recognising the role of Special Constables, who volunteer alongside their regular employment and family responsibilities.
Tameside Correspondent reported that Special Constables play an important role in supporting policing across Greater Manchester. The force’s operation combined enforcement activity with community engagement.
Background of the development
The Special Constabulary has a long history in England and Wales. The Special Constabulary Act, which received Royal Assent 195 years ago, established the legal framework for appointing and operating Special Constables.
Special Constables are trained volunteers with the same powers and authorities as regular police officers. They support frontline policing while balancing their duties with employment, family and other commitments.
In Ashton-under-Lyne, the latest operation formed part of a wider policing approach that combines visible patrols, business engagement and enforcement against retail crime, anti-social behaviour and drug-related activity. The involvement of the town’s MP highlighted the local political interest in town-centre safety and community policing.
Prediction: how may this affect local residents and businesses?
For Ashton-under-Lyne residents and businesses, the operation may provide short-term reassurance through a stronger police presence in the town centre. Businesses affected by retail crime may welcome the crime-prevention advice and direct engagement from officers.
The arrests, recoveries of missing people and seizures may also signal continued enforcement activity around theft, drug offences and breaches of court orders. However, the longer-term effect will depend on whether similar operations continue and whether the underlying causes of retail crime and anti-social behaviour are addressed.
For the local community, the event may strengthen awareness of Special Constables and their volunteer role. Ms Rayner’s participation could also encourage further discussion about town-centre safety, police visibility and support for community policing in Ashton-under-Lyne.
