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NEWS: Erdington man jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to Chudleigh Rd shooting

Words by Ed King

Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

An Erdington man has been jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to charges related to a shooting on Chudleigh Road in July 2024.

Desie Dalton-Byrne, who lives on Chudleigh Road, received his sentence at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 6 March – with West Midlands Police now releasing more details of the case.

Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to charges including possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition for a firearm without a certificate.

Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

The most serious of the charges faced by Dalton-Byrne, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, could have seen him sentenced to a decade behind bars for that crime alone.

The other charges could also have carried jail time of between 5-10 years each – as directed by the sentencing guidelines from the Crown Prosecution Service.

Firearm found on Low Wood Road during investigation of shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

The 21-year-old was arrested in September 2024 after police scoured CCTV from across the area and talked to witness.

Chudleigh Road sits between Reservoir Road and Marsh Lane – two busy thoroughfares connecting Erdington Town Centre to Stockland Green – with the firearm eventually retrieved from a garden on neighbouring Low Wood Road.

From the evidence gathered by investigating officers, Dalton-Byrne can be seen on CCTV brandishing a weapon – with reports stating shots were fired at a group of people on Chudleigh Road at around 6:30pm.

Dressed in what appears to be a black tracksuit with white trims, he can be seen leaving the driver’s side of a parked vehicle, before waving the gun above his head, then aiming it down the street whilst standing in the middle of the road.

Entrance to Chudleigh Road from Reservoir Road / Image taken from Google Maps

No one was injured during the shooting, and as Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to the charges he was not asked to explain his actions in court. After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midland Police stated: “the motive of the shooting has never been revealed.”

Detective Inspector Matt Marston, from WMP’s Major Crime Unit, added: “Firearms and drugs play a significant role in criminality on our streets. It persistently erodes communities, ruining lives and blighting communities.

“As a result of this discovery, we’ve taken a deadly weapon off the streets, and an individual with direct access to it is behind bars.”

He added: “We hope this sentence will offer a deterrent to other criminals who act in this way.”

CCTV footage of gunman brandishing firearm on Chudleigh Road

Erdington has had significant investment from West Midlands Police over recent months, with two policing initiatives being launched in the constituency – Operation Skybridge in October 2024, and Operation Fearless in January 2025.

Operation Fearless, which is focusing activities on and around Erdington High Street, has seen a team of 20 specially recruited officers tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in the Town Centre.

Since its launch in January 2025, Operation Fearless has seen 75 arrests for crimes from shoplifting and possession of an offence weapon, to assault and possession with intent to supply. The initiative has also seized hundreds of thousands of pounds in illegal drugs and contraband.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

In an exclusive update to Erdington Local, Detective Superintendent and Operation Fearless Lead Jim Munro told: “Since Operation Fearless launched on 7 January, we’ve now made 75 arrests and carried out 120 stop and searches. Of those 75 arrests, 44 people have already been charged and are now going through the courts.”

“Many of you have noticed a real improvement on the High Street, with comments like “What a difference Operation Fearless has made! Not only is it looking cleaner, but people seem a lot happier – a definite buzz of positivity in the air!” This kind of feedback, and the positive interactions our officers have received while out on patrol, confirms we’re on the right track.”

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

He added: “We still have a lot of work to do and we’re not slowing down. In fact, we’re working even harder. We’re teaming up with great partners and we’re always looking for ways to do better.

“We’re listening to you and working hard to make things better for the residents of Erdington. We’re all in this together, and we’ll keep you updated on what we’re doing.”

For details on how to report a crime in your area call West Midlands Polcie on 101, or visit: www.westmidlands.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via the independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In case of an emergency, please dial 999.

 

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NEWS: Wilson Stuart School Headteacher wins ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ award

Words by Ed King

Simon Harris presented with ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ at University of Wolverhampton / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Wilson Start School Stuart Executive Headteacher, Simon Harris, has been presented with the inaugural ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ award from the University of Wolverhampton.

Established to recognise individuals who have made a significant impact on SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provision, the award was presented to Mr Harris during a lecture he was delivering at the university – with the Wilson Stuart Headteacher completely unaware he was to be honoured.

After receiving the ‘Outstanding Contribution to SEND’ award, Mr Harris told Erdington Local: “It a complete shock, and I was not expecting this type of award. But it is also important to stress that everything we do at Wilson Stuart is a team effort, and it isn’t fair to spotlight one person. All of our roles work together for the good of the children we educate and care for on a daily basis.”

He added: “We have a seamless team of 182 people who help me every day to do my job, and this award is for each and every one of them.”

Simon Harris (left) joined at Wilson Stuart School by High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Douglas Wright MBE DL (right) / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Wilson Stuart School began as an educational institution in 1902, originally called the Dean Street Cripple School and renamed after the prominent orthopaedic surgeon Francis Wilson Stuart in 1954.

Moving to Perry Common in 1956, Wilson Stuart School is now situated next to Dovedale School and The Hive College – all established for young people with SEND – and provides education for what Mr Harris previously described to Erdington Local as “pretty much the most complex children, physically and medically, in the city.”

Becoming part of the Education Impact Academy Trust (EIAT) in March 2012, alongside Queensbury School and Mayfield School, Wilson Stuart School currently has up to 270 school places for children aged between 2 and 19 years old.

Simon Harris (right) with student (left) and Gruffalo (centre) celebrating ‘The Book Project’ at Wilson Stuart School / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Recognised as an exemplary educator, during his tenure as Executive Headteacher Mr Harris has taken Wilson Stuart through several Ofsted inspections, maintaining the highest rating from the education ombudsman.

In the school’s most recent inspection, in December 2024, Mr Harris was praised for “lead[ing] the school with high ambition and enthusiasm” as Wilson Stuart School was again awarded the ‘Outstanding’ grade – the seventh consecutive top mark from Ofsted, according to school staff.

The Wilson Stuart School staff, whom Mr Harris also previously described as being “fiercely committed [people who] work incredibly hard”, were also praised by Ofsted for giving their students “the highest level of care and expectations”.

Steve Hughes OBE, former EIAT Chief Executive, joined Mr Harris at the presentation and celebrated his ongoing achievements in SEND education, referring to him as a “pioneer” in the field.

Simon Harris (left) joined bt Steve Hughes OBE (right) during award presentation / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Queensbury School Executive Headteacher, Chris Wilson, also spoke about how Mr Harris has and continues to “break disability barriers”, creating a more inclusive and balanced education system for all learners.

Mr Wilson continued to say: “Simon Harris has been a beacon of hope, an advocate for change, and tireless champion for students with special educational needs in any school.”

He added: “The words ‘I can’t’ are not in his vocabulary and his DNA is probably coded to say ‘Better Never Ends’”, referencing the Wilson Stuart School motto.

In a post made on the Wilson Stuart School website, a spokesperson for the Education Impact Academy Trust told how EIAT is “very proud to have Simon Harris working as part of the family of schools in the trust” and how his “dedication, passion and vision” have “changed lives of countless students, families and staff” for many schools that offer SEND provision.

For more on Wilson Stuart School visit www.wilsonstuart.co.uk

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NEWS: The Swan pub raises over five thousand pounds to support John Taylor Hospice

Words by Ed King

The Swan on Erdington High Street / Image supplied by Stonegate Group

The Swan pub recently raised over five thousand pounds to help support John Taylor Hospice in Erdington.

The popular local boozer organised a series of fundraising events to raise money for Birmingham Hospice, the charity which manages end of life and palliative care facilities in both Erdington and Selly Oak.

Events including hamper raffles, toy drives, clothes collections, and book sales, saw The Swan raise a total £5,140 from generous regulars and local residents.

Fundraising sign / Image supplied by the Stonegate Group

Throughout January, staff at The Swan also gave up alcohol in bid to raise even more funds for the hospice charity, with bar top collection buckets getting a steady stream of donations.

Staff at The Swan thank the generosity of the Erdington community, with many local residents and pub regulars having personal connections to John Taylor Hospice.

Pub operator Wayne Hinton told: “To see the community come together to support such an important charity was a heartwarming and prime example of what makes the Erdington community so brilliant.

“The hospice is very close to all of us in the area and I’d like to personally thank every single person who has been generous enough to give money to a fantastic cause.”

He added: “A huge thanks must also go to our own staff who have not been afraid to get stuck in, raising a huge £5,140, and we’re not going to stop there! We have plenty more fundraising efforts to come in the coming months so watch this space!”

The Swan, located at 65 Erdington High Street, is a longstanding and popular community pub, operated as part of the Stonegate owned Craft Union Pub Company.

Drinks on draught / Image supplied by the Stonegate Group

Recent fundraising efforts are part Craft Union’s ‘Make it a Million’ campaign, which started in 2024 and aimed to raise £1 million for local causes through its network of over 600 pubs across the year.

At the time of writing the national portfolio of pubs and licenced had raised approximately £972,660 during the twelve month campaign, with staff at Stonegate’s support team contributing a further £96,813.

For more on The Swan visit www.craftunionpubs.com/swan-erdington

For more on Birmingham Hospice visit www.birminghamhospice.org.uk

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NEWS: Operation Fearless team seize “thousands of pounds” worth of drugs and weapons in series of arrests

Words by Ed King

Drugs seized by Operation Fearless after man arrested on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Police from Operation Fearless have seized “thousands of pounds” worth of drugs and weapons in a series of arrests and early morning raids across Erdington.

Acting on intelligence from the local community, the Op Fearless team bust down the door to a residential address on 31 January – uncovering an illegal cannabis grow and “several weapons” at the Erdington home.

As confirmed by West Midlands Police, one man was arrested and processed on “suspicion of drug offences” with an investigation continuing after the further discovery of weapons.

Two further addresses were also raided with two more men arrested, with both wanted by police for a recall to prison – meaning they had broken previous parole conditions and would be sent back into custody.

Operation Fearless in early morning raid on residential address in Erdington / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Studies have shown cannabis plants can each yield around 10-15 ounces of the Class B drug, with a street sale value of up to £3000. It is unconfirmed how many plants were discovered at the Erdington address but a cannabis factory can potentially squeeze hundreds of plants into a residential home.

Operation Fearless were also cracking down on crime on Erdington High Street and arrested a man on 3 February who the police confirmed “was spotted on the High Street in possession of cannabis.”

Shoppers and businesses alike have reported people on Erdington High Street taking and selling drugs openly, seemingly without fear of reprisal.

Following the initial arrest, Operation Fearless then raided the man’s home addresses in Erdington with West Midlands Police further confirming they “recovered thousands of pounds worth of drugs” – as pictured at the top of this article.

Cannabis plants found by Operation Fearless in early morning raid on residential address in Erdington / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Whilst the image taken of the illegal drugs haul shows the police had mainly found what is suspected to be cannabis flower and cannabis resin in the raid, which are both rated as Class B by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, it also shows several bags of white and green powder that may be a Class A drug such as cocaine, crack cocaine, or methamphetamine (crystal meth).

Criminals charged for possession with intent to supply or distribute Class B drugs can face up to 14 years behind bars, as can those responsible for growing cannabis at home.

Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs can result in over seven years behind bars or even life imprisonment.

Operation Fearless Lead Detective Superintendent Jim Munro talking to media on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, leading Operation Fearless, said: “We’re continuing to focus on crimes we know matter most to people living in Erdington.

“Local residents tell us they’re concerned about drug-related offences around the High Street and our officers are conducting specific operations to target this.”

He added: “Working in partnership with other policing teams, the council, and community groups – we will not let up in trying to make Erdington a safer place to live, work, and visit.”

Operation Fearless was officially launched on 7 January 2025, following Operation Skybridge, bringing a specially recruited team of officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour on Erdington High Street and around the Town Centre.

Supported by an investment of £880,000 from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC0), with the funds taken from proceeds of crime, the special policing initiative is being launched in Erdington before moving on to other areas across the city.

Operation Fearless team in group photo on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

DCI Jim Munro previously confirmed to Erdington Local the Op Fearless team “will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary” to hand the High Street safely back to local partners and the Erdington Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT).

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden, who sits as Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District (EBID), also told: “Hopefully [Operation Fearless] can crack down on the serious anti-social behaviour and crime that’s been taking place on the High Street.

“Residents and businesses have been really concerned about that over the last few years, and we’ve been raising this with the police.”

He added: “And the key thing is, now there are all these additional officers here, is making sure both businesses and residents report any crime that they see.

“Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence that other people submit and then enable [the police] to carry out raids, and to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless/

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NEWS: From shoplifting to armed carjacking – Operation Fearless makes arrests across Erdington

Words by Ed King

Operation Fearless officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Since officially launching on Tuesday 7 January, officers from Operation Fearless have been making a raft of arrests across Erdington – apprehending criminals from shoplifters to armed carjackers.

The Op Fearless team have also seized weapons from suspects on the street, raided the address of a suspected drug dealer, and used “community intelligence” to catch wanted and violent criminals and send them to court.

In a brief breakdown of some of the arrests made by the Operation Fearless team so far, prolific and agressive shoplifters on Erdington High Street have been caught, charged, and processed on 17 Jan, 19 Jan, and 21 Jan.

Officers have seized weapons, including knives and bats, from individuals on the streets on 12 Jan and 20 Jan.

Operation Fearless officers and dog patrol unit on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

On 14 January, Operation Fearless and local police raided the home address of a suspected drug dealer – breaking down their front door on Derrydown Close and finding 50 wraps of drugs and a zombie knife.

On 17 January, after being alerted by staff at a local pub, Operation Fearless police apprehended a man after he smashed windows at the premises – further finding a knife, and that the man was previously wanted for robbery.

On the launch day itself, 7 January, arrests were made for sexual offences and failure to attend a previous court hearing.

But perhaps some of the most audacious arrests for the Operation Fearless team were made after receiving reports of an armed carjacking, taking place mid-afternoon on Saturday 18 January.

Partnering with police in the traffic and firearms teams, Operation Fearless cops tracked the stolen Kia car – which had been taken from a motorist on Short Heath Road at knife point – and gave chase.

Kia car stolen at knife point stopped by Operation Fearless officers, working with traffic and firearms police teams / Pics supplied by West Midlands Polcie

After refusing to stop and even ramming two police vehicles, the fugitives were finally corned and forced to surrender. Three people in their thirties were later charged with robbery, possession of a knife in a public place, aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, and other driving offences.

Operation Fearless have been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner and will see 20 officers and £880,000 invested into Erdington Town Centre.

The initiative follows on from Operation Skybridge which was launched last autumn, and saw the police deploy extra resources to tackle crime across the wider Erdington constituency.

With an increase in “high-visibility patrols” and “targeted operations”, West Midlands Police state they introduced the special policing initiative to tackle crime on and around Erdington High Street – an area that has been a “hotspot” of crime and anti-social behaviour.

Operation Fearless lead Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Leading Operation Fearless, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro told Erdington Local: “We’ve got problems here and now, there’s no two ways about that; we’ve listened to the community. Theft, anti-social behaviour, open drug dealing or drug taking… all key things that, quite rightly, concern the community.

“So those are the things we need to address straight away, and we need to look at those issues and how we look to deter offending. And how we look to reduce that and put people through the criminal process if appropriate.”

He added: “[Operation Fearless} will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary to hand it into a place, where we feel, it is sustainable to look at regeneration.”

(l-r) Erdington Ward Councillors Gareth Moore and Robert Alden / Pic supplied by Cllr Alden

Funded until March 2026, Operation Fearless are encouraging Erdington local businesses and residents to report any and all crimes they see, using both the improved 111 and 999 services and by talking to bobbies on the beat around the High Street and other areas.

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden (Conservative), who sits as Director of the Erdington Business Improvement District, reiterated this call to arms to report and fight crime.

He told Erdington Local: “It’s vital that businesses and residents report any crime they see; it might be a partial numberplate, it might be a partial description, but feed it in directly to the police – or to Crimestoppers if you [want to do this anonymously].”

He added: “Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence that other people submit and then enable [the police] to carry out raids, and to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”

Operation Fearless police team raid address of suspected drug dealer on Derrydown Close

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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NEWS: Community Group’s Meeting to help with networking, funding, and “additional support” on Monday 27 January

Words by Ed King

Compass Support are inviting community groups from across Castle Vale to a special meeting on Monday 27 January, to help them with an array of “additional support” from finding and applying for funding, to training and advice.

Held at The Sanctuary Community Centre on Tangmere Drive, the ‘Community Group’s Meeting’ will run from 6:30-8pm and is completely free to attend.

No advance booking is required to attend, with any interested parties invited to arrive at The Sanctuary for the 6:30pm start. Teas and coffees will be provided.

The meeting will also be a chance for local residents and volunteers to find out more about the wide range of community groups and activities on and around Castle Vale.

The Sanctuary Community Centre on Tangmere Drive, Castle Vale / Pic taken from Google Maps

Organisers hope that the ‘Community Group’s Meeting’ will be a chance for local groups to network and support each other, whilst encouraging anyone who wants to be more involved in local community activities to find out more about what’s happening in their area.

Compass Support Community Hubs Manager, Laura Grigg, said: “Community groups are the foundation for connected communities, they have an enhanced understanding of the needs and wants within communities.

“Compass Support [recognises] the valuable work of community groups but also appreciates that additional support may be needed to sustain, manage, and grow activities.”

She added: “The event on Monday 27 January will be an opportunity to network with other local groups, highlight challenges and explore opportunities for funding, publicity, and support. Join us for a cuppa and a chat.”

Representatives from Castle Vale Local will also be attending and hoping to find volunteers interested in community journalism, whilst also looking to connect with local groups and find out more about their activities and ambitions.

Compass Support’s ‘Community Group’s Meeting’ will be held at The Sanctuary Community Centre on Tangmere Drive, Castle Vale, on Monday 27 January – free to attend, running from 6:30-8pm.

For more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

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NEWS: Police and Crime Commissioner confirms “no final decision” has been made on moving Neighbourhood Policing Team off Castle Vale

Words by Ed King

PCC Simon Foster at the launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King

After months of speculation the Tyburn Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) could be moved off Castle Vale and relocated to Erdington Town Centre, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster has now confirmed “no final decision has been made” and any plans are “still under review”.

Castle Vale Local was first informed about the possible Tyburn NPT move in autumn last year, which would see the team of community police officers moved to Erdington Police Station – placing them at least 50minutes walking distance away from the edge of the Castle Vale estate and an average of between 12-20minutes if responding in a police car or vehicle.

A map of the area covered by the Tyburn Neighbourhood Policing Team / Image taken from WMP website

When asked for confirmation if the move was imminent, or being considered at all, spokespeople for both West Midlands Police (WMP) and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPPC) were initially unclear as to who would be making the final decision.

But speaking to Castle Vale Local at the recent launch of Operation Fearless, held at Villa Park on Tuesday 7 January, PCC Simon Foster confirmed that whilst “ultimately that is an operational policing decision for the Chief Constable and the local area police borough commander” his office was not aware that any plans had been finalised.

Chief Constable Craig Guildford at the launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King

Furthermore, the West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford confirmed if there was a financially viable option to keep the Tyburn NPT on Castle Vale then “of course [the police would] look at that.”

He added: “In particular, it might be good as a touchdown point for some of our neighbourhood cops and PCSOs. So, I’d never rule anything out. But I’m just being honest and saying my job is to make the pounds go as far as I can squeeze them.”

In previous statements from West Midlands Police, after initial enquiries and calls for clarification, Superintendent Emlyn Richards told Castle Vale Local: “The Tyburn neighbourhood policing team remain based in Castle Vale, however, our lease on their office expires in 2025.”

Reiterating the Chief Constable’s financial concerns surrounding some operational decisions, he added: “Understandably we’re exploring all possibilities to ensure good value for public money balanced our commitment to delivering effective policing.”

Police car parked on Farnborough Road, Castle Vale / Pic by Ed King

When the possible move of the Tyburn NPT was first reported on by Castle Vale Local, Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin (Labour) and The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson began petitioning the police for consultation before any plans were finalised – raising significant concerns about a spike in crime and anti-social behaviour if the public facing police team were to leave the estate.

Since being elected in 2022, Cllr Goodwin fostered a close working relationship with the Tyburn NPT police team and was seen by many, both stakeholders and residents, as having helped the police tackle crime across the estate.

In May 2024, Cllr Goodwin organised a ‘Crime and Community Safety Summit’ at Greenwood Academy on Farnborough Road, to address residents concerns over crime rates and police presence across the estate. The event was attended by many local residents, alongside Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton, PCC Simon Foster, and the then Tyburn NPT Sergeant Edkins.

Broken police tape by the old police station on Castle Vale High Street / Pic by Ed King

After the closure of the police station on Castle Vale High Street, The Pioneer Group had been providing the Tyburn NPT with working space at The Greenhouse – office facilities owned by the housing provider in the centre of the estate – where the local police ran a ‘pop up’ police facility for local residents.

This had been given by The Pioneer Group without rental charges, with the police only liable for “their share of service charges for use of space in our building”, confirmed CEO Simon Wilson, and if the NPT sought to renew their lease “the core terms [would] remain the same – share of service charges and peppercorn rent (i.e.no rent).”

Mr Wilson added “This was to help ensure we could keep the Neighbourhood Policing Team located on Castle Vale.”

In an open letter to both the Chief Constable and Police and Crime Commissioner, written and signed by both Cllr Ray Goodwin and Simon Wilson, the local stakeholders expressed their “very genuine concern” and called for any action to be “put on hold” until “meaningful engagement is undertaken” to reach a solution that would not see Castle Vale lose its uniformed police presence.

Police and forenics investigating a violent attack and reports of gunfire on Castle Vale / Pic supplied by local resident

Both West Midlands Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner continue to state that working with partners, such as locally elected officials and housing associations, is a key part of their neighbourhood policing strategy.

In the recent West Midlands Police Neighbourhood Policing Ambition document, setting out the regionwide approach to community policing until 2026, Chief Constable Craig Guildford states how the new “neighbourhood policing model [will] ensure we remain connected and engaged with our communities [and] continue to work with partners” – a sentiment reiterated throughout the sixteen-page mission statement.

Castle Vale Local continues to liaise with all parties involved and will keep our readers updated.

For more on the Tyburn Neighbourhood Police Team, visit: www.westmidlands.police.uk/area/your-area/west-midlands/birmingham/tyburn/about-us/top-reported-crimes-in-this-area

 

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NEWS: Erdington Councillor Robert Alden pays tribute to “a wonderful man who cared deeply” after passing of father and Honorary Alderman John Alden

Words by Ed King

Cllr Robert Alden by Rookery House in Erdington / Pic supplied by Birmingham Local Conservatives

Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden has paid tribute to his father and Honorary Alderman John Alden, after the esteemed senior politician passed away peacefully on 6 January.

In a statement issued through the Birmingham Conservatives, Cllr Alden told: “My father was a wonderful man who cared deeply about helping residents in need. He gave over 33 years to the City, always willing to try and help people no matter the time or day.”

He added: “The City is a worse off place with his passing, we will always miss him.”

John Alden was a significant figure in local politics, having represented the Harborne Ward as a Conservative Councillor for 33 years – from when he was first elected in 1983 until 2012, then after being re-elected in 2014 until his retirement in 2018.

(l-r) Lord Mayor John Alden and wife Cllr Deidre Alden / Pic supplied by Birmingham Local Conservatives

Respected across the political aisle, John Alden was further appointed Lord Mayor in 2003 – helping to launch new Bullring Shopping Centre and represent the city to partners across the world, including a high profile visit to New Delhi in 2004.

Cited as one of the key local councillors who stopped the Conservatives from losing prominence in Birmingham during the 1990’s, when the party was slumped in the national polls, John Alden also served as Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group from 1996 to 2000 – alongside a period as Leader during 1997.

Following both his father and mother into politics, Robert Alden was first elected as Erdington Ward Councillor in 2006 – with the ward being comfortably retained by the local Conservatives ever since.

Robert Alden was also appointed Leader of the Birmingham Conservatives in 2014, after serving as the party’s Deputy Leader – following in his father’s footsteps and representing the local party for over a decade.

John Alden leaves behind his wife, Cllr Deirdre Alden (Edgbaston Ward), sons Robert and Thomas, their wives Louise and Helen, and five grandchildren.

For more from Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden and Councillor Gareth Moore visit www.facebook.com/ErdingtonNews

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PICTURE GALLERY: Operation Fearless launches with afternoon of strong police presence on Erdington High Street

Words by Ed King / Pics by Joe Marchant, Ed King, and supplied by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

On Tuesday 7 January, West Midlands Police (WMP) launched Operation Fearless with an afternoon of strong police presence on Erdington High Steet – in “a major new drive to bring down crime” across the troubled retail hub.

Starting with a special event at Villa Park, WMP invited Erdington local stakeholders and representatives of community groups to hear from Chief Constable Craig Guildford and Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster about their ambitions to make Erdington High Street a safer place to live, shop, and visit.

Following their presentations, Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton (Labour) expressed her relief and gratitude at the extra police attention, telling around 150 delegates “Thank God, we finally have some [extra police] work going on in Erdington” which she further expressed was “so, so, so overdue.”

Chief Constable Craig Guildford adress delegates at Operation Fearless launch, Villa Park / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police)

The Erdington Ward elected officials, Cllr Robert Alden (Conservative) and Cllr Gareth Moore (Conservative), were also present at the launch and further expressed their appreciation of the increased police activity – having campaigned for years to increase patrols and uniformed presence in Erdington Town Centre.

Operation Fearless states it will work with citywide and hyperlocal partners to reduce crime in the area, including “Birmingham City Council and other agencies such as immigration, bus and rail companies.”

Moving up to the High Street itself, the new police team came out in force for the afternoon – establishing a knife wand and detector pole at Erdington Police Station, and bringing sniffer dogs, drones, horse mounted patrols, and extended foot patrols in a significant show of police presence in the Town Centre.

Officers with knife wand at Erdington Train Station / Pic by Ed King

Following on from Operation Skybridge that launched – again on Erdington High Street – last October, Operation Fearless will see a dedicated team of 20 new officers working in Erdington Town Centre tackling crimes from drug dealing and shoplifting to anti-social behaviour and assault.

Headed by Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, who is known for his work on WMP’s Homicide team, Operation Fearless has so far arrested several people in connection with crimes including drug dealing and burglary.

The special initiative also recently arrested six men for conspiracy to defraud, following a joint operation with Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards team where over half a million pound worth of counterfeit and illicit goods were seized form the High Street. The £500,000 plus haul included cigarettes, vapes, and unregulated prescription medication.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro taking to media at Operation Fearless launch on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant

Whilst out with the Operation Fearless police team on Tuesday 7 January, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro told Erdington Local: “We’ve got problems here and now, there’s no two ways about that. Theft, anti-social behaviour, open drug dealing or drug taking… all key things that, quite rightly, concern the community. We know that [Erdington High Street] has also been a hotspot previously for youth violence.

“So those are the things we need to address straight away, and we need to look at those issues and how we look to deter offending. And how we look to reduce that and put people through the criminal process if appropriate.”

He added: “But in terms of bringing back Erdington High Street to the village that it was, we’ve got to work with wider partnerships. It’s wider than the Council. We’ve got to encourage people to reinvest in this area and, quite rightly, people will be reluctant to do that if they feel the area is blighted by anti-social behaviour and crime.

“So our view will be that we will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary to hand it into a place, where we feel, it is sustainable.”

Official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park and on Erdington High Street 07.01.25

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless/

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NEWS: Police launch Operation Fearless in “a major new drive” to tackle crime on Erdington High Street

Words by Ed King

Police tape blocking off Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

On Tuesday 7 January, West Midlands Police (WMP) launch Operation Fearless on Erdington High Street – described by the force as “a major new drive to bring down crime” and help people feel safe in Erdington Town Centre.

Following on from Operation Skybridge, which launched in October last year, WMP state the new policing initiative will bring “a brand new team of 20 officers… dedicated to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour” into Erdington Town Centre, making arrests for crimes from shoplifting to drug dealing.

In a further list of offences the initiative is looking to stamp out, Operation Fearless will also target crimes including anti-social behaviour, robbery, burglary, violence, the sale of stolen goods, and exploitation.

Alongside seeking support from local businesses on the High Street, police say Operation Fearless will work with “Birmingham City Council and other agencies such as immigration, bus and rail companies” to identify and catch criminals.

Local residents, shoppers, and businesses in Erdington Town Centre have long reported endemic shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in the once bustling retail hub, with WMP estimating crime in the area has cost the local economy around £7m in the last year alone.

Talking about shoplifting on the High Street, Karen Leavy, store manager at Peacocks on Erdington High Street, previously told Erdington Local: “It’s every day… the [shoplifters] that we know of it could be up to two or three times a day.

“Then there are one’s that we don’t know of, going to the back of the shop and detagging stock. They are an everyday occurrence as well.”

She added: “From 2019 up to last year it’s improved, but we’re still losing about £250 a day.”

(Click here to read Erdington Local’s 2023 feature on shoplifting on Erdington High Street in full.)

Sign by Six Ways Island at entrance to Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

Operation Fearless is funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPPC) using £880,000 from the proceeds of crime to finance the special policing initiative.

Once Operation Fearless has completed its work in Erdington Town Centre, both WMP and the OPCC are keen to replicate the program in other crime hotspots across the region. However, as with Operation Skybridge, Erdington Town Centre was chosen as the “pilot” due to the troubling crime trends in the area.

Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster told: “I am pleased to announce that I am investing nearly £1 million from proceeds of crime recovered from criminals, to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.”

He added: “Operation Fearless is launching first, in and around Erdington High Street. I am committed to ensuring there is a reassuring and visible presence out on the streets to keep people, families, businesses and local communities safe and secure.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, who is heading Operation Fearless, further told: “Every day, people in Erdington should feel safe, but we’ve been listening to community concerns, and we understand that people aren’t feeling safe.

“So, we are now launching Operation Fearless to ensure that people feel safe coming to Erdington to live, work and shop.”

He added: “We hear you; we understand you and what matters to the community the most. What we need now is your support.”

Sign identifying the boundaries of the Public Space Protection Order in Erdington Town Centre / Pic by Ed King

Until 23 December 2024, Erdington Town Centre was also under a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) giving local law enforcement greater powers to challenge crime and anti-social behaviour in the area and allowing them to physically remove and effectively ‘ban’ repeat offenders from the High Street.

Implemented in May 2021, the PSPO expired just before Christmas Day last year, with Erdington Ward Councillors Robert Alden (Conservative) and Gareth Moore (Conservative) spearheading the campaign to get it renewed for a further three years.

At the time of writing, it is unclear if the PSPO for Erdington Town Centre will be reinstated by Birmingham City Council.

Operation Fearless – official launch video from West Midlands Police

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless/