Fury over 'shocking' and 'shameful' state of memorial to fallen PCs Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes

Broken and neglected it is meant to be a garden in memory of two GMP officers who gave their lives on the frontline. Next month marks the 11th anniversary of the murder of PCs Nicola Hughes and Fiona Bone.

But a section of a tribute to them outside Hyde Police Station has been allowed to remain in a state of disrepair for months. Today after it was highlighted on social media and the MEN contacted the force, "do not enter" police tape was wrapped around it.

One side of a planter box filled with flowers and shrubs next to plaques of Nicola and Fiona is broken. The situation has angered staff at the station.

One posted on a twitter page used by officers throughout the UK: "I work out of Hyde Police Station and I'm sad to report the memorial to Nicola and Fiona has fallen into a state of disrepair and looks shocking.

"As per usual the SLT (Senior Leadership Team) are only interested when a photo opportunity comes along - however those that see this everyday and have known them personally I deeply p.....off about it. I feel that this should be put out there in the hope that someone will address it urgently. From a concerned member of the Tameside Community."

GMP said today they put tape across the planter after the force became aware of comments on social media. A note was also stuck to the planter. It says: "Please bear with us while the memorial garden is being repaired and maintained. We also ask that you respect the families of the officers and not speculate regarding the ongoing works."

In September 2022 at the very same spot uniformed police officers and local leaders stood side by side with family and friends of Fiona and Nicola at a memorial service, marking the 10th anniversary of the officers being killed on