Greater Manchester Police (GMP) will be carrying out a 'crime blitz' in Stockport and Greater Manchester this December and January.

Named 'Operation North Star', the scheme will see increased patrols throughout the Christmas period - whether that's in busy areas such as Christmas markets, or in criminal 'hotspot' areas guided by intelligence.

GMP said officers aim to 'decisively' deal with issues suggested by residents.

This includes retail crime, anti-social behaviour, violence against women and girls, and the night-time economy.

The campaign, supported by the UK Home Office, aims to follow on the success of 'Safe4Summer', a similar operation which took place earlier this year.

That scheme saw shoplifting and theft reduced by 20 percent, street crime down by 11 percent, and serious violent crime down by eight percent.

Police patrolling the Christmas markets in Manchester city centre (Image - GMP)

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Boyle, GMP's lead for Local Policing, said GMP will "utilise all of the resources we have at our disposal to provide the best possible service to keep the people of Greater Manchester safe".

"The Winter period is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy themselves without the risk of having issues from those who look to cause harm and anti-social behaviour", ACC Boyle added.

"It is those people that can expect a knock on the door from us, whether it's a polite word of advice or a new pair of handcuffs for Christmas, we simply won't tolerate crime or anti-social behaviour in our communities."

Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, added: "Everyone deserves to feel secure in their neighbourhoods or when out and about, especially during the festive season.

"Through Operation North Star, GMP and our partners are working together to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour, so that people across Greater Manchester can enjoy this time of year safely and confidently.

"Together, we're making sure our communities remain safe, resilient, and supported."

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