11th August 2025
ROMILEY GAZETTE – NEWS REPORT
Police Called Twice to Peaceful Protest Outside LibDem Office
On September 12th 2024 a peaceful protest in Romiley took an unexpected turn when police were called twice within minutes by local Liberal Democrat representatives.
The protest, held outside the LibDem constituency office, was staged by Romiley Gazette editor, Sheila Oliver, in response to what she describes as “ongoing wildlife crime in Romiley” — an issue which began on 9 August 2024 and continued until police intervention exactly one year later.
Standing approximately six feet from the office doorway, the editor held an A4 paper sign reading “Useless LibDem Councillors”. Two police cars with flashing lights and sirens, and a police van, attended the scene.
According to the editor, officers assessed the situation and left. Around ten minutes later, police returned following a second call from the LibDem office. On both occasions, no arrests were made.
The Gazette understands the protest was intended to highlight the length of time it took for action to be taken on reported wildlife crimes.
The Gazette has approached MP Lisa Smart for comment on the incident and the broader concerns about local wildlife crime. She received this request at 06.06 on Monday, 10th of August.
EDITOR’S NOTE
For over a decade, the Romiley Gazette Editor has asked uncomfortable but necessary questions about public accountability — from a possible £6 million shortfall in 2009-value council funds, to the handling of serious wildlife crime in our area.
On this occasion, a peaceful, lawful protest intended to draw attention to months of inaction resulted in an extraordinary police response — twice in ten minutes. No offence was committed, no arrests made, yet resources were deployed at speed while the underlying issue remained unresolved.
When elected representatives react more urgently to a placard than to the plight of local wildlife or concerns over public money, it raises serious questions about priorities. These are questions this paper will continue to ask, without fear or favour.
We again invite MP Lisa Smart and local Liberal Democrat councillors to respond on the record, both regarding this incident and the wider issues it represents. The public deserves nothing less than full and open answers.
— Editor, Romiley Gazette
