It wouldn't be too bad if they provided a service but on view of yesterday's incident with Chris Kirkland, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are failing to protect the players, let alone supporters at the DW Stadium.

The police presence was plentiful and in evidence at the ground. However the congregation of twenty officers having a cosy chat by the corner flag was never going to deter the thugs from Burnley.

Only after Chris Kirkland was struck on the back of the head with a coin did the police officers move in to marshall the away crowd. Although there was a delay of around five minutes before this movement, supporters were shocked at the fast response of the police who normally take days to attend.

There were also a number of violent incidents outside the stadium. In a local derby with history of violence and such an impact on the relegation battle in the league, should more have been done to serparate the two crowds of supporters after the game?

Many residents in the Wigan borough will have received their council tax bill this month for the forthcoming year. Contained within this are the details of Greater Manchester Police demanding an increase of 7.5% for their services this year.

Have they not heard of the recession and the fact that many people are happy to still be paid, and in full time employment? An increase 4% ahead of inflation is a drain on the tax payer and offers pathetic value for money.

The hierachy are probably still busy patting themselves on the back for the ransom paid to the kidnappers of Sahil Saeed in the week.

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