CATHERINE HANKINSON has been appointed new Divisional Commander for GMP’s Oldham division.

She takes over from Tim Forber who is leaving his current role but will remain with GMP.

Ch Supt Hankinson said: “I look forward to being Commander for an area as enriched in culture and heritage as Saddleworth.

“My time as Superintendent for the area has given me the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience while understanding the community concerns and issues.

“In my new role I am hoping to develop this and continue to build on the success of Tim while remaining committed to reducing crime and antisocial behaviour.”

As Superintendent she was responsible for operations and prior to this she was responsible for partnership working, criminal justice and neighbourhood policing and has worked on the division for three years.

She has 17 years of experience in police and previous roles have included Chief Inspector at South Manchester Division, Force Duty Officer and Chief Constable’s Staff Officer.

She added: “Over the next couple of months I will continue with our high profile campaign to ensure organised criminals no longer profit from their life of crime and assets we seize from them are ploughed back into community initiatives.

“Crime in Oldham has reduced by 23 per cent and antisocial behaviour by 45 per cent in the last three years.  I am committed to reducing crime and give victims the excellent service they deserve from the police.”

Outgoing Chief Superintendent Forber said: “I have enjoyed all of the experiences that have come with my time here and wish Catherine all success for the future.”