THE conviction of a terrorist from Bolton is being hailed as one of the main achievements of Greater Manchester Police's Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) in its first year.

Omar Altimimi was branded a terrorist "sleeper" when he was jailed for nine years in July 2007.

His home was raided by anti-terror police who discovered masses of terror-related material on his home computer including manuals on how to make car bombs and lists of "suitable targets" for attacks, including nightclubs and airports.

Altimimi, aged 37, of Lansdowne Road, Tonge Moor, was just one of a number of people to be convicted in the first 12 months of the GMP terror units existence.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tony Porter, head of GMP CTU, said: "It has been an incredibly busy year but we have had some significant successes. As well as five people convicted as part of terrorist investigations, we have also disrupted others from their activities.

"We have only been able to do this work with the support of communities across Greater Manchester. It is their support and information that has made a real difference to the safety and security both in Greater Manchester and nationally.

"I urge people to continue to help and to use the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline 0800 789321 if they are concerned about any suspicious activity. Their information can ensure we continue to tackle terrorism and extremism."

As police celebrated the anniversary yesterday, they unveiled a powerful new supergun which will be used in the battle against terrorism. The Heckler and Koch G36 Assault Rifle will be used by all trained officers by the end of April as they patrol terror targets such as Manchester Airport and political party conferences.