A BOLTON school is helping to boost the "thin blue line" by sponsoring the employment of two special new recruits to the Greater Manchester Police force.

Canon Slade School is one of three new sponsors for four of the police force's latest German Shepherd puppies.

The school donated a lump sum of £450, which contributes towards the puppies' first inoculations and general upkeep.

The puppies, named Watson and Whitie, are now nearly five months old and have started play training before eventually being taught obedience and searching techniques.