AFTER almost two decades, there’s one man who knows his town better than anyone.

PC Paul Griffiths has spent 19 years on the streets of Westhoughton.

After a career serving the community, the area’s longest serving officer is stepping down from his duties in the New Year.

Westhoughton Town Council presented PC Griffiths with a Certificate of Achievement on Monday at the final meeting of the year.

Mayor Arthur Price began by addressing the beat bobby, saying: “It’s a sad day that you’re leaving,” and added that he had seen the area through the “good times and bad times” as a familiar face.

The Mayor gave PC Griffiths the certificate “as a thank you from the town”.

The Mayor praised in particular the police officer’s bravery in a violent attack on two Blackrod residents in 2009.

PC Griffiths began policing the town in 2006 and thanked Westhoughton for the years gone by.

He said: “It’s been an honour to serve this town and I thank you very much for the support.”

PC Griffiths added: “It’s my adopted home.”

There were some concerns about the town being left without a replacement neighbourhood officer after PC Griffiths announced his departure.

Sergeant Gary Howard had previously said that the PC’s leaving would add pressure to a stretched police team.

However, he put minds at ease by introducing his replacement,.

PC Griffiths described the new addition, PC McTinsley, as "an absolute top lad and even better cop”, and joked “you won’t miss me in a week!”.