Inspector Hayley Thompson (photograph supplied by WMP)
Words by Inspector Hayley Thompson – Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team
(**Ed’s note… this column was first published on Friday 17 October in the Erdington Local print edition.)
It’s been another busy month for the Erdington neighbourhood team, as we wrapped up September with a successful All Out Day.
It was fantastic to be out on the High Street, meeting so many of you alongside my colleagues, and new Chief Inspector, Chanelle Whitney.
We spent time speaking with local residents and businesses, listening to concerns around issues like shop theft and drug use, both of which we’re actively working to address. Your feedback is invaluable and helps shape our priorities moving forward.
We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support from our partners, including Birmingham Community Safety Partnership, North LCSP, Erdington BID, and many others.
The presence of Fearless officers on the High Street has become a reassuring sight for many residents and businesses and their weekly patrols are making a real impact.
We’ve charged a man with a string of shop thefts on Erdington High Street, after he was arrested by Fearless officers on 1 October.
Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team and Birmingham City Council Safety Enforcement Offciers on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
The 24-year-old was charged with seven theft offences from several different stores, including on the High Street.
Among those also arrested this week were individuals wanted for domestic harassment, drink driving, and failing to comply with a community order.
Looking ahead, we’ve got several community open events happening this month at our Engagement Hub, located outside B&M. These are a great opportunity to speak directly with officers, get crime prevention advice, and have a friendly chat.
West Midlands Police (WMP) have appealed for witnesses after a woman suffered “life threatening injuries” following a road traffic collision on Marsh Lane, on Tuesday 23 September.
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 5:15pm yesterday evening, after reports that a car had struck a pedestrian.
West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) reached the scene minutes after being called, sending an ambulance crew – with a paramedic officer – and a MERIT trauma doctor with a critical care paramedic.
Close up of MERIT badge on emergency response vehicle / Photograph supplied by WMAS
According to WMAS woman was found with “serious injuries” and emergency crews administered “specialist trauma care” at the scene before moving her to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman told: “On arrival, crews found the pedestrian, a woman, had suffered serious injuries.
“She received specialist trauma care from ambulance staff before being taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital with MERIT travelling on board to continue treatment.
They added: “There were no other patients.”
Rear view of ambulence in transit / Photograph supplied by Adobe Stock Images
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and has been helping police with their enquiries, who are now calling on any members of the public for further information.
Specially trained officers have also been supporting the woman’s family.
A statement issued from WMP confirmed: “We’re appealing for the public’s help after a serious collision that has left a victim with life-threatening injuries.
“We were called to Marsh Lane, Erdington, at 5.25pm, yesterday (23 Sept), after a collision between a car and a pedestrian. The pedestrian, a woman in her 20s, was taken to hospital and remains in a serious condition.”
They added: “Our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) are currently working to establish exactly what’s happened and are appealing for anyone with any doorbell footage, or anyone who may have witnessed the incident to get in touch.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call West Midlands Police on 101, quoting incident number 4152 of 23 August.
Alternatively, anonymous reports can also be made through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
Inspector Hayley Thompson (photograph supplied by WMP)
Words by Inspector Hayley Thompson
Hello, I’ve recently taken over as the new Inspector for Birmingham East, covering Erdington and surrounding areas. I’ve taken over from Inspector Christian Forder, who has done a fantastic job leading the team here and I’m proud to be building on the strong foundations he’s laid.
It’s only my first week, but I’ve already been out and about, meeting the teams and getting stuck into conversations about what really matters to our local communities.
I’ve spent over 20 years in policing, most recently as a Response and Neighbourhood Inspector across Solihull and Birmingham and I’m bringing all of that experience with me into this new role.
I know that shop theft and antisocial behaviour on the High Street remain key concerns. These are priorities for us too, and we’re committed to making the area safer and more welcoming for everyone.
Last week, Operation Fearless returned to the High Street for a day of action. With support from student officers, the team detained two men wanted for theft and enforced the Public Space Protection Order. They also spent time engaging with residents and local businesses — a great example of partnership in action.
I know trust in policing is built through consistent action and honest conversations. That’s what I’m here to do. I want to listen, learn, and work with you to make Erdington a place we’re all proud of.
Thank you for your continued support. I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together.
Sergeant Gary Grove standing by police vehicle on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Sgt Gary Grove – Erdington High Street police team
We’re so grateful for the help and support we get from our volunteers in Erdington, that I wanted to explain more about how we work in partnership with them to keep the area safe.
Our StreetWatch volunteers regularly head out with officers, chatting with residents and offering a reassuring presence. Just recently, they stepped in to help someone during a medical emergency – staying with them until help arrived. That kind of care really shows the heart of our community.
We also have SpeedWatch groups made up of local residents who work with us to tackle speeding. We’ve invested in new equipment to support them, and if speeding is something you’re worried about in your area, please do get in touch so we can look to address it.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering and can spare just a couple of hours a week, we’d love to hear from you. You can drop us a line at [email protected]
Meanwhile, our neighbourhood team is continuing to act on what matters most to you. We’ve recently arrested a suspected drug dealer in The Gardens and seized cannabis from a vehicle linked to drugs.
We’re also working closely with Operation Fearless and Trading Standards to crack down on illegal goods being sold on the High Street – seizing several items as part of our ongoing efforts.
As always, if there’s anything you’re worried about or if you have any information to share, please feel free to contact us.
Sgt Gary Grove standing by patrol vehicle on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Sgt Gary Grove
It’s a busy time for our dedicated Erdington officers as we continue to work hard to make the area as safe as possible.
I’d previously updated you on our new Community Engagement Hub at the heart of the High Street, which was formally opened by Operation Fearless, alongside Paulette Hamilton MP and our community partners.
As ever, we’re welcoming your feedback and thoughts on any issues in the area and how we can work together to tackle them – and the hub should be a place for you to speak to dedicated officers about any concerns.
We’re targeting those looking to cause harm in the area, and we recently arrested a man after seizing several dangerous weapons, another wanted for a serious assault, and two more who were wanted on recall to prison.
We’re also aware of reports of anti-social behaviour in The Feldings, and we’re actively patrolling there as we look to disrupt it. Again, if you have any reports or information about ASB – please do let us know.
We’ve also had complaints from residents about problem vehicles and I’m pleased to say our team recently recovered one van which shouldn’t have been on the road, and recovered another which had been stolen.
Our patrols will continue as we support the Safer Streets Summer campaign, and it’s always a pleasure to join partners and our dedicated Street Watch volunteers. If you’re interested in joining us – please get in touch.
Cllr Ray Goodwin on Castle Vale High Street / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Labour
Words by Cllr Ray Goodwin
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been reminded—again and again—why I’m so proud to represent Castle Vale.
Our community is full of everyday heroes. From the volunteers in our foodbanks, to the youth workers creating safe spaces, to the neighbours looking out for one another – you are the heartbeat of this estate. It’s not about politics, it’s about people.
I’ve been out and about, listening to your concerns and working with local partners to tackle the things that matter most: rising living costs, mental health support, youth engagement, and the need for decent, affordable housing. One issue I know has been a major concern is dangerous street racing.
Thanks to pressure from residents and our work alongside West Midlands Police and the City Council, we’ve have seen enforcement action take place.
I’ve also raised the issue directly with highways and community safety teams to push for longer-term solutions – because our roads should be safe for everyone, day and night.
I want to thank everyone who’s taken time to speak with me at community events, clean-up days, forums, or even just out on the street. Your voices guide the work I do. I’m not here to make promises I can’t keep – I’m here to listen, to act, and to stand alongside you.
Castle Vale is strong because you are strong. And as your councillor, I’ll continue doing everything I can to support a community that believes in fairness, compassion, and opportunity for all.
We are Castle Vale – and together, we are stronger.
Sgt Gary Grove standing by patrol vehicle on Erdington High Street / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Sgt Gary Groves – Erdington High Street police team
(Ed’s note… this column was written the June/July Erdington Local newspaper and first published, in print, on Thursday 12 June.)
Firstly, I hope you’ve all been able to enjoy some time outdoors during the longer days. If you’ve been on the High Street, you’ll have hopefully noticed myself and the team out and about as we work to keep the community safe.
That work’s been bolstered by the arrival of our new Community Engagement Hub, at the heart of the High Street.
Some of you have spoken about the need for a public space to report crime, seek advice, and engage with officers – and we hope the hub will deliver just that.
It’ll serve as a base for police and partners including local authority anti-social behaviour officers, and colleagues from the Business Improvement District.
If you are on the High Street – do pop in to say hello.
The team’s work to protect the community has continued at pace, making 29 arrests since the start of May.
Illegal contraband seized from Erdington High Street during police operation / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
We’ve also been working with Trading Standards to act on intelligence from the community about the supply of illegal vapes, cigarettes, and tobacco in Erdington.
The High Street Team supported Operation Fearless colleagues during a day of activity where an estimated £750,000 of potentially harmful and illegal goods were seized from two shops and vehicles.
Your information and updates can be vital, and we will always listen to what you have to tell us.
Pop in to the hub or come and chat to us when we’re on patrol, and I’ll keep you up to date on our progress.
Two men from the Yardley constituency have been charged with firearms offences and other crimes, following an alleged shooting at Kenrick Croft, Castle Vale, on the morning of Sunday 1 June.
In a statement issued by West Midlands Police (WMP), following an investigation after the incident was reported in the early hours, the force confirmed: “Detectives from our Major Crime Unit have now charged Elliot Foley, aged 40, and Abid Khan, 43, with violent disorder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.”
Castle Vale Local pressed the police to confirm the home addresses given by those charged, with a WMP spokesperson quickly confirming Elliot Foley was from Stoney Lane and Abid Khan was from Berkeley Road.
Both addresses are from the Yardley constituency in Birmingham and are about a 15 minute drive from Kenrick Croft on the Castle Vale estate.
Blue and white police tape / Photograph by Ed King
West Midlands Police further confirmed: “The disorder happened on Kenrick Croft, Castle Vale, at around 2am on Sunday.
“As well as the firearm, we recovered a quantity of shotgun ammunition, a number of bullets and a knuckle duster from an address in Birmingham as part of the investigation following the disorder.
“[Abid] Khan has also been charged with possession of prohibited weapon, possession of ammunition without a certificate and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.
“[Elliot] Foley has also been charged with assault by beating of a police officer. Both were remanded in custody to appear before city magistrates today (Tuesday).”
Castle Vale statue by Chivenor Primary School / Photograph by Ed King
West Midlands Police also stated that a 41 year old woman had been treated for “shotgun injuries”, and whilst being arrested had been released on bail without charge.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin (Labour) was also quick on the scene following the reports made on Sunday morning, and has promised to establish a “multi agency taskforce” to stand up to crime on the estate.
Soon after another violent incident on Castle Vale last year, were four men were seen brandishing machetes and residents reported gunfire, Cllr Goodwin organised a Community Crime and Safety Summit at Greenwood Academy – bringing the Police and Crime Commissioner to address concerns from people across the estate.
After the most recent statement from West Midlands Police regarding the Kenrick Croft arrests, Cllr Goodwin told Castle Vale Local: “Having received an update from West Midlands Police confirming the two individuals charged with firearms offensives were not from Castle Vale, I am relieved to know those currently in custody are not from our estate.”
“But we must double down and do everything we can to protect this amazing community from these acts of violence – which have no place on Castle Vale.”
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin / Photgraph supplied by Birmingham Labour
He added: “Whether it was an isolated incident or not, it has reportedly involved a firearm and people have been charged with intent to endanger life. This is not acceptable.”
“I will not rest, and as previously promised I will be organising a muti agency taskforce to look at what more can be done to protect our residents and the amazing Castle Vale community moving forward.”
West Midlands Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing and officers have been “examining CCTV and mobile phone footage, and speaking to witnesses”.
Police have asked anyone with information that may be able to support their investigation to contact them by calling 101 and quoting log 446 of 1 June.
Alternatively, people can contact the West Midlands Police via the Live Chat facility at www.westmidlands.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
West Midlands Police have arrested three people, after starting an investigation into reports of shots being fired in Kenrick Croft on Castle Vale in the early hours of Sunday morning.
According to local residents and people who were in the area at the time, an altercation occurred on the street in the early hours – followed by a car arriving at the scene, and a man releasing “three or four” gunshots.
After the shots were fired, according to local residents the car sped off but got lost in the roads that connect the Kendrick Croft to the wider estate – raising question that those involved were not familiar with Castle Vale.
Blue and white police tape / Photograph by Ed King
Emergency services attended the scene, with local residents celebrating the police for arriving “very quickly” after the incident was reported.
Police immediately began knocking on doors and gathering eyewitness accounts and local knowledge about the incident, with a forensic team arriving later and cordoning off Kendrick Croft whilst the began searching for clues.
Blue and white police tape cordoned off Kendrick Croft until mid morning on Sunday 1 June, with cars being blocked from entering or exiting the roads whilst the police investigation was underway.
West Midlands Police have been able to confirm that no one was serious injured in the attack, and that three individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin was also quick to arrive at the scene, to support both investigating officers and the local community, and has committed to establishing a special task force to challenge violent crime on the estate.
Police cars parked on Farnborough Road / Photograph taken by Ed King
After the incident, a spokesperson form West Midlands police told: “We’re investigating after disorder where gunshots were fired in Kenrick Croft, Castle Vale, at around 2am today (1 June).
“It’s understood a group were involved in a melee, but no-one was present when officers arrived. At this stage, no-one is understood to have sustained gunshot injuries.”
They added: “Following enquiries we later arrested three people on suspicion of being connected to the disorder.
“A 40-year-old man and 41-year-old woman have been detained on suspicion of violent disorder and possession of a firearm. They’re currently in custody for questioning.”
“Another man, aged 43, has also been arrested on suspicion of the same offences. He’s currently in hospital and will be questioned in due course.
“We’re carrying out extensive enquiries in and around the area to establish the full circumstances and who was involved. We’ve also stepped up reassurance patrols.”
Councillor Ray Goodwin further told Castle Vale Local: ““I am concerned to hear from local residents this morning there was an incident in Avery Croft and Kendrick Croft – where it seems firearms where discharged.
“I can confirm forensics have been at the scene and West Midlands Police are working on an investigation.
“I am pleased that no one has been seriously injured. However, we must double down on dealing with the perpetrators of crime and I will be working with all agencies to set up a task force – to look at what has happened, and how we can pull in resources to support the community and to stop these crimes from happening again.”
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin / Photgraph supplied by Birmingham Labour
He added: “Castle Vale is an amazing community; one I am proud to be a part of and proud to represent. But isolated incidents like this put Castle Vale in the news for the wrong reasons.
“I am sorry the wider community – who have done nothing wrong – and are pulled into the wrongdoing by people who, from what I hear in this incident, don’t live on the estate.
“I will do everything in my power to stop these issues from happening again and to support the amazing Castle Vale community.”
West Midlands Police have asked anyone with information that may be able to support their investigation to contact them by calling 101 and quoting log 446 of 1/6/25.
Alternatively, people can contact the police via the Live Chat facility on the West Midlands Police website at www.westmidlands.police.uk
Sgt Gary Grove from the Erdington High Street police team / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Sgt Gary Grove – Erdington High Street police team
For those of you who haven’t met me yet, I’m Sgt Gary Grove, your new High Street policing team Sergeant. It’s my pleasure to introduce myself and share how we’re working hard to keep our community safe.
With the Op Fearless team relocating to Southside, we’re focused on building on their success and making sure Erdington remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.
Their work led to more than 140 arrests, acting directly on concerns from residents and businesses. Fearless will return to Erdington from time to time to work with us, but now it’s our job to keep up momentum.
Sgt Grove talking to Erdington BID Street Wardens / Photograph supplied by Erdington BID
Since taking over at the start of April, we’ve had a strong start, making more than 17 arrests for various offences, executing warrants, and seizing illegal items. Our vehicle stops have led to the discovery of cash and drugs, while stop and searches have helped us remove dangerous weapons and knives from the streets.
This month, we’ll be out engaging with local businesses alongside partner agencies, ensuring the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is enforced by tackling street drinking and anti-social behaviour.
We know these issues matter to the community, so we’ll be taking strong action to stop them.
Sgt Grove, the High Street police team, and Erdington BID Street Wardens / Photograph supplied by Erdington BID
You’ll see us on patrol, listening to the community and acting on intelligence. We’re here to help and if you see us out and about, please do say hello.
I look forward to keeping you updated on our progress, successes, and future initiatives.
