Officers join families for school holiday activity day in Derker

Stoneleigh Park in Derker was alive with activity this week as officers from Operation Vulcan joined local families for a community event aimed at bringing residents together during the school holidays.

The day, organised by the Friends of Stoneleigh Park, formed part of Oldham Council’s holiday programme for local families. It provided a chance for residents to connect with officers in a relaxed setting, with the focus on building trust, improving confidence in policing, and strengthening relationships with young people in the area.

Officers from Operation Vulcan were joined by neighbourhood officers, PCSOs, Police Cadets, GMP’s Positive Action Team, and the Mounted Unit. Children enjoyed exploring police vehicles, testing the blue lights, and trying on uniforms, while interactive stalls – including virtual reality headsets – offered insight into specialist police work and highlighted important safety messages, such as the dangers of knife crime.

Deputy Mayor Kate Green attended the event to see the community engagement efforts first-hand.

As well as fun activities, the day also provided practical support, with every child receiving a free packed lunch, helping to ease pressures on local families during the holidays.

DCI Chris Julien from Operation Vulcan said: “These events help bring the local community together, and are so important as they give us the opportunity to engage with them, and strengthen relationships by increasing trust and confidence in us.

"We are delighted that the Deputy Mayor Kate Green travelled to see the event, and I’d like to thank all those who came along and spent time speaking to us.

"We had some really positive and valuable feedback from residents about the work we’re doing to tackle issues locally, and this proactivity will continue.”

Councillor Elaine Taylor, Oldham Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “These holiday activity events are a fantastic way to bring our communities together and to give families free support during the holidays.

“Summer can be an expensive time when you have children, so I’m delighted that we can provide free activities for children and families during the holidays.

“Oldham has shown a real commitment to its children and young people with events like these.

“A big thank you to everyone who has made this happen, and particularly the Friends of Stoneleigh Park who have organised this event.”