A RETIRED teacher and housing worker were consulted by police over preventing trouble at the large-scale far right protests against the Astley Bridge mosque.

Sylvia Oakes and Sylvia Swain are two volunteers on Bolton's Independent Advisory Group, which comprises residents whose opinions help shape police decisions.

Launched about a year ago, the IAG sees residents of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds involved in operations.

The aim is to give police a better understanding of how issues are affecting communities, as well as enlightening the public over how the police work.

Now, police are hunting for more willing volunteers to apply to join the successful team of eight currently working there.

Mrs Oakes, aged 66, from Horwich, went to the Blackburn Road protest over the summer to report on the police's work, and said the IAGs prove the police want to be transparent.

She said: "We are not a token gesture, we are asked for our honest opinions and they are valued.

"We are encouraged to challenge the police and not be afraid to say we disagree with something.

"For example, we were asked to attend a Gold meeting of senior officers and asked our opinions on the community reaction, media and even where the march should take place, ahead of the Astley Bridge demonstration."

Other issues that the IAG members have been asked about include stop and search powers and child sex exploitation (CSE).

Mrs Swain, aged 65, from Harwood, said: "I was a housing practitioner and was approached by the police to apply because of my links with residents groups, including the Somalian community and Asian communities.

"It has been a real learning experience so far. I would not do it if it was not worthwhile.”

The team for Bolton meets every two months but members can be called in to advise on big incidents or issues at any time.

PC Andy Vernon said: "The IAGs are critical friends of the police and advise on local issues that might affect a small number of people, to force-wide operations.

"It is not a PR exercise. It is not a case ‘we will deal with things and then ring them later’.

“We want the IAG members there on the front line with us.”

To apply email julia.wharmby@gmp.police.uk or write to Bolton IAG, Bolton Central Police Station, Scholey Street, Bolton, BL2 1HDl.

There is no closing date for applications.