Extra PCSOs recruited to police Manchester's Metrolink

Greater Manchester Police has admitted the task of effectively policing the Metrolink network is a tough one - after a number of incidents this week.

An extra 50 PCSOs are being recruited to help keep passengers safe.

The worst incident this week saw a boulder thrown through the windscreen of a tram travelling around 50mph which knocked the driver unconscious and left him with injuries to his head and chest.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “The incidents that we have seen on the Metrolink service this week show the challenges that we face in policing the transport network. Since 2014 we have seen an increase in crime on the bus and Metrolink network which is why we established the Travelsafe team with Transport for Greater Manchester in April 2015.

“It isn’t just the problem of criminal damage we know from the Tell Mama report in June last year that the transport network is one of the three top places where hate crime takes place. We need to all work together to ensure that people can travel around Greater Manchester safely.

“In February we agreed to fund an additional 50 PCSOs who will work with the Travelsafe team and these are currently being recruited.

“With 60 miles of Metrolink track and 92 stops keeping passengers and drivers safe is not easy. We know the majority of antisocial behaviour around the network is linked to young people. We need schools and parents to ensure their young people are aware of the potential implications if they cause criminal damage. They could cause serious injury as well as distress for passengers.

“The Mayor of Greater Manchester has already made it clear that making the transport network safer is a priority. It is a priority for the police, for Transport for Greater Manchester and for local people. We need people to provide information that will help us identify those responsible by calling 101 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.”