A NEW type of police officer is getting results on the streets of Farnworth.

Police Community Support Officers were introduced in the town three years ago, and the four-man team has been responsible for numerous convictions.

According to Bolton South Area Sergeant Shane O'Neill, their local knowledge is worth its weight in gold.

Sgt O'Neill said: "In my view, the PCSOs are filling a void police officers have been unable to fill for some time, and that is engaging the community. They're the eyes and ears of the police, and they're playing a very important part in our fight against crime in Farnworth.

"I supervise four very dedicated and committed PCSOs, who also work as school liaison officers in the four local secondary schools.

"They know the kids' names and faces, and this has proved particularly valuable on our Friday night operations to tackle anti-social behaviour.

"I've lost count of the number of prolific offenders we've been able to arrest because of the information our PCSOs have been able to feed back to us.

"They have a range of powers - they can carry out stop checks, issue fixed penalty notices and seize alcohol."

PCSO Michael Farrell, aged 35, has been in the job for three years.

He said: "I was one of the first recruits. I originally studied psychology and forensic psychology at university, and I was going to use the job as a stepping stone to becoming a police officer.

"But I really love the work and I'm going to stick with it. I especially enjoy my role as a liaison officer for Mount St Joseph.

"People like seeing two officers walking around the streets - although we do sometimes get mistaken for traffic wardens, which can get a bit frustrating. It's all about getting to know names and faces and letting people know that we're here to help them."

PC Liz Conner, based at Farnworth station, said: "The PCSOs have got the time to speak to people and build links with the schools and local community.

"They're helping us tackle the anti-social behaviour issues that most affect people, such as graffiti, verbal abuse and underage drinking. They provide reassurance and a visible police presence, save us a lot of time and free us up to concentrate on arrests, crimes and warrants."