Blackburn PCSO up for award

3:54pm Friday 9th November 2007

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A POLICE community support officer who stopped a canal towpath being used as a "motorway" by children riding mini motorbikes has been nominated for a top award.

Police community support officer (PCSO) Nigel Brooke, has been shortlisted for community support officer of the year in the Jane's Police Review Gala Awards.

The PCSO for Mill Hill and Lower Darwen, Blackburn, was nominated by Lancashire police bosses for his work to prevent youngsters racing each other along the towpath of the Leeds to Liverpool Canal.

PCSO Brooke has also helped in police and DVLA schemes to drive untaxed vehicles off the streets of his patch.

The Jane's Police Review awards recognise the work of beat bobbies who are not attached to high profile units.

The judging panel includes some of the country's most senior police figures.

PCSO Brooke, who joined the force 15-years-ago as a traffic warden, is among five officers from Lancashire Police who have been nominated for awards.

In December 2005 he wrote to British Waterways asking for sections of the Leeds to Liverpool Canal towpath to be blocked.

The move came after officers received reports youngsters were racing each other on mini-motos reaching speeds of up to 40mph.

Lancashire Police's chief constable, Steve Finnigan said: "It was his persistence in the face of apathy that impressed the force.

"Not only does Nigel work full time with the police but he also works for local voluntary groups and charities for the elderly and recently received a chief constable's commendation.

"Nigel has built up strong relationships with the local community and is held in high regard by colleagues."

Mr Brooke, who became a PCSO in 2003, is a familiar face to people living on his beat and covers at least 60 miles a week cycling around the Mill Hill and Lower Darwen area.

The Jane's Police Review Gala Awards, is in its 16th year but it is the first year an award has been held for PCSOs.

The winner of community support officer of the year will be announced at a ceremony London on November 22, when the winner will receive £1,000.