OFFICERS combined hard work, determination and their unique local knowledge numerous times last year to bring incidents to a fitting conclusion — and make a difference to Bolton.

The cases ranged from shoplifting to a life-and-death situation, demonstrating the breadth of work police undertake every day on the borough’s streets.

In March, a luxury Baby Merc pushchair was stolen from the Mencap charity shop in Chorley Old Road just a day after it had been donated.

But thanks to their patrols and community links, PCSOs Cheryl Taylor and Julie Swift recognised the pram in nearby Halliwell UCAN Centre the following day and established a couple had innocently bought it for just £20 from someone.

They were able to return the stroller to the shop, and it went on to sell it for £65.

Amy Wilding, project manager at Bolton Mencap, said at the time: “The police and the PCSOs do not get enough praise for their work so we just want to thank them.

“It is a lot of money to an independent charity like ourselves, so we really appreciated the effort they went to.

"I hope they get the recognition they deserve.”

Three officers were hailed as heroes after saving the life of a woman from a river.

PCs Rob Cook, Bryan Bowdell and Dave Ford were part of a team responding to a 999 call over concern for her welfare.

She had been on the telephone to a relative abroad who told police he could hear the sound of running water in the background of the call.

The officers’ quick-thinking and logical thinking meant they were able to trace and pull the woman from the River Croal in White Lion Brow in extremely challenging circumstances.

Inspector Nicki Tompsett, who oversaw the police response, said at the time: “I didn’t need to give any instruction as my officers, who on recognising the impending circumstances, demonstrated the most dramatic selfless act possible. It was instantaneous action. I am immensely proud of all my officers. They managed to fulfil one of my – and I am sure one of their – joining principles. They made a difference.”

Just last month officers showed their job is not just about catching criminals.

Sergeant Alex Metcalfe, of the Farnworth Neighbourhood Policing Team, arranged for a poorly Farnworth boy who loves everything to do with the police to have a Christmas to remember.

He and colleagues invited eight-year-old Brayden Cosgrove, who was born with rare condition lissencephaly, to sit in various police cars and vans with his father. It was a treat Brayden loved, especially the drama of the lights and sirens.

Sgt Metcalfe said: “His excitement and enthusiasm was inspirational to everyone involved.”