Police in South Manchester are running a series of Urdu courses for Officers in a bid to enhance their relationship with the community.

The course is being run at the request of officers who want to further their communication skills and break down the language barriers that exist between police officers and the Urdu-speaking community.

The course will last for 15 weeks, and will teach students to speak basic Urdu while broadening their knowledge of Asian community life.

Whilst the course may not produce fluent speakers in Urdu, it will assist police officers in overcoming some of the language difficulties they experience when conducting enquiries or simply offering help and advice to the Urdu-speaking community.

Community Affairs Inspector Peter Forster said, "The aim is to give officers the ability to speak basic Urdu, allowing them the confidence to help form links with the local communities.

"I am sure that the effort which the staff are making will be welcomed by everyone. It forms part of Greater Manchester Police's on-going campaign to combat racism and curb racist incidents".