A "DEDICATED" Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) has been awarded for their efforts.

Michelle Ashurst, who has been with GMP for 16 years, was awarded PCSO of The Year at the Chief Constable's Annual Awards ceremony, held at the Etihad Stadium in October.

Over the last few months, in response to a spike in bicycle thefts, PCSO Ashurst secured £3,000 through funding bids to set up pop-up bike registries and security tagging events across Wigan in order to reduce crime and demand.

The single mum is said to have “excelled” in her work while caring for her dad with complex care needs and her mum with stage 4 cancer who recently passed away. 

Michelle told the Journal: “I am elated to have won this award for doing the job I absolutely love. I have several highlights in my career, as it has been varied and rewarding, but winning this award is certainly up there at the top.

“I endeavour to be a strong positive role model, especially to my two little boys. I always tell them they can be anything they want to be in life and can achieve anything they put their mind to.

“I am very passionate about my job and making Wigan a safe place for people to live, work and visit.

“I am proud of the work I have done to win the PCSO of the Year award, which highlights the vital role of PCSOs within the neighbourhood and what they do to help the community and get results.

“I am lucky to work alongside the most amazing, supportive and hard-working colleagues who go above and beyond each day.

“We work well together as a team, and each one of us is integral in ensuring that we achieve what we need to.”