A CAMPAIGN has been launched to keep a community police officer in Kearsley.

As part of a restructure, PC Linda Gavin has moved to a different role within Greater Manchester Police.

The move has angered Grosvenor Residents Association, who feel they will not get the same level of service and fear crime rates will go up — despite her being replaced by another officer.

Greater Manchester Police has been restructured in a bid to save money. The four Bolton boroughs have now become three and some officers have moved to new posts.

Melanie Livesey, aged 48, who lives in Clifton Street, said: “She was like a family member to people. She had the right temperament.

“This is a big loss to us and the community.

“She was the main officer around here and now she has been moved to another area.

“She has got used to the area and now she has gone we are back to square one.

“She always went the extra mile for us, came to events in the community, responded to our concerns quickly and sorted out the naughty kids. It is a shame because people had confidence in her and she gained trust.”

Police will now speak to residents about their concerns.

Insp Chris Evans, from the South policing team, said: “We have a new policing model and changes have been made.

“We are looking at any issues.”