POLICE are asking people to help clean up their communities by passing on information about criminal activity to their local Neighbourhood Police Team.

However, anyone concerned about approaching the police directly is encouraged to contact Crimestoppers and pass on that information anonymously.

For those who already call Crimestoppers the Police ask them to encourage their friends and family to also report crime this way. The more information the Police have about criminals the more likely something can be done to tackle them.

Since Crimestoppers was established in 1988, over 100,000 criminals have been arrested and charged as a result of information phoned in.

Inspector Mark Gallichan of Greater manchester Police's divisional team, said: “A great deal of valuable intelligence comes to us through Crimestoppers, and I would urge people to make full use of it.

“We understand that people can sometimes feel anxious about going in to a police station to report crime, but those already familiar with this service will know it is completely anonymous, and we’re asking these people to spread the word about how easy it is to use.

“With Crimestoppers you don’t have to give your name, just your information, and your call will not be traced or recorded. You can also give the information online by visiting the Crimestoppers website and completing their online form. In addition, you do not have to go to court or give a statement.”

To contact Crimestoppers call 0800 555 111 or visit the website www. crimestoppers-uk.org For non-emergency calls or to report crime, people can also call police directly on 0161 872 5050.

Use 999 only in emergencies where there is a threat to life or crime in progress.