City's Top Cop Says Farewell

Chief Superintendent Gerry Donnellan says a final farewell to the people of north Manchester as the division sees the arrival of a new Divisional Commander.

North Manchester's top cop has led a team of 977 officers and staff in reducing crime across the area for over three years and will now be taking on a new challenge at GMP's headquarters.

With a reduction of 14 per cent and 5458 fewer victims of overall crime** during his time here, Gerry leaves the area a safer and more enjoyable place to be.

As we look back on the three years that Gerry has managed policing in the area, including the city centre, there have been many challenging times including the UEFA Cup Final, the EDL / UAF protests and many other major events that have taken place in the city.

Chief Superintendent Gerry Donnellan said: "I will be leaving the division with many memories and a sense of pride for what we have achieved during my time here. I will not only remember the many challenges that we have faced but most importantly will remember the people that have contributed to a team that has worked with such determination to keep the people of Manchester safe.

"As I move on to other challenges I would like to thank the many partners that I have worked with over the years and the people of north Manchester for their support. I leave with the knowledge that I am passing the division over to an exceptional officer who no doubt will have her own challenges to face in one of the most vibrant cities in the UK. I wish Caroline the very best of luck."

Chief Superintendent Caroline Ball arrives at north Manchester with five years experience as Divisional Commander in Oldham. Prior to her time in Oldham she worked in various areas within Greater Manchester notably Gorton, Beswick, Moss Side and Stockport, working in plain clothes and uniformed branches.

She was responsible for the restructure of the Tactical Aid Unit and has also been very active during her career in helping to develop Greater Manchester Police's corporate development, business planning and performance monitoring systems.

Caroline is married with two children and lives in Tameside.

Chief Superintendent Caroline Ball said: "I am really looking forward to my new role as Divisional Commander for north Manchester. It already has an excellent national reputation for policing major events, and I am looking forward to building on the good work that Neighbourhood Policing Teams are doing in the many diverse communities that the area has. I intend to ensure that the people of north Manchester can continue to enjoy high quality policing that is geared to their needs and concerns."

Manchester City Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Jim Battle, said: "Manchester City Council has enjoyed a close working relationship with Chief Superintendent Donnellan and his team. He has made a real difference to policing in north Manchester and the city centre. We look forward to working with Chief Superintendent Ball and wish Gerry all the best in his new post."