Full Breakdown
Gun and Ammunition Discovered at Closed Salford Nursery
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Incident
On October 7, 2026 Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers executed a warrant at the former Mini Fingers Day Nursery on Liverpool Road in Irlam, Salford. Acting on intelligence, they entered around 20:30 BST and recovered a firearm and a “substantial quantity” of ammunition. Two men were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A (cocaine) and Class B (cannabis) drugs. Christopher Maxwell, 38, of Manor Road, Sale, was charged with possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition without a certificate, and possession of cocaine. He was remanded into custody and appeared before Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on October 10, 2026. The second suspect, a man in his 50s, was released on bail.
Background & Context
Mini Fingers Day Nursery was ordered to close after Salford Council’s environmental health department issued a prohibition order on October 2 due to a rat infestation and a collapsed drain beneath the baby room. Parents were notified of permanent closure on October 5, and the nursery surrendered its Ofsted registration shortly thereafter. GMP says the firearms investigation is unrelated to the health-related closure.
Data & Statistics
- Arrests: Two men – one in his 30s and one in his 50s.
- Charges (Maxwell): firearm possession, ammunition possession without a certificate, cocaine possession.
- Drug suspicion: conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis.
- Evidence recovered: one firearm and an unspecified “substantial quantity” of ammunition.
Official Statements & Responses
- GMP spokesperson: the weapon discovery is “entirely unrelated” to the nursery’s closure.
- Salford Council spokesperson: the council is helping affected families locate alternative childcare and transfer any free nursery hours.
- Mini Fingers representative: the matter is now subject to a police investigation; no further comment.
- Mayor Paul Dennett: called for calm and community unity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It does fill me with guilt,” — Chloe Malpus
- “After gaining entry, a search took place which has seen us recover a firearm and a substantial quantity of ammunition.” — force spokesperson
- “Our city motto is 'the welfare of the people is the highest law',” — Mr Dennett
On-the-Ground Reports
Parents expressed shock and loss of confidence in early-years provision. One mother said the incident “completely destroyed” her trust in nursery settings. Residents described the police cordon and multiple tactical units as “scary” for the neighbourhood.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources state no link has been identified between the firearm and nursery staff. Details on how the weapon entered the building, the exact ammunition quantity, and the investigation’s progress remain undisclosed.
What’s Next
GMP says the investigation remains active, with both suspects in custody for further questioning. No additional court dates have been announced beyond the October 10 appearance of Christopher Maxwell.