Arrests over park bike thefts
POLICE have made two arrests after a gang of vicious bike robbers made a park a no-go area for children.
Five expensive mountain bikes were stolen over a weekend from youngsters in and around Thornfield Park, Heaton Mersey, Stockport.
There was another incident last week in which two pupils from Priestnall School were robbed of their mobile phones.
As reported in the Express one mother turned detective to track down the gang and recovered three bikes – including her 13-year-old son’s. The boy and his friend were robbed of their bikes in the park after the hooligans threatened to stab him.
Priestnall School and nearby St Winifred’s Primary have sent letters to parents urging them to make sure their children do not use the park as a cut-through for the time being.
Last Tuesday, two suspected bike muggers were held by members of the public at the Mauldeth Road entrance to the park. Police were called but they got away.
The crimes have triggered a huge response from residents who have demanded a crackdown by police.
In a statement posted on social media, GMP Heatons and Reddish division said: “In response to the recent spate of robberies and thefts in the Heatons area surrounding Priestnall Road and surrounding parks.
“Two arrests have been made this evening.
“After a large scale investigation and livetime operation were put into play, arrest attempts were made earlier this evening with two males having been brought into custody.
“Should you have any further information then please do not hesitate to contact us either on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Stockport MP Ann Coffey and local councillor David Sedgwick have demanded action from the police.
Inspector Steve Gilbertson said: “We are reviewing all the incidents and will speak to all the victims to get statements or video interviews due to their vulnerability.
“By way of reassurance we are deploying highprofile uniformed patrols and plain clothes officers in the area of the park for the foreseeable future.”