A BOLTON detective who led an investigation into the theft of boilers from council properties has been given an award.

Det Sgt Andrew Greenhalgh heads Bolton's burglary unit team and has won the Chief Constable's Award for Team Leadership.

The unit exceeded targets in burglary reduction and the number of burglaries solved, resulting in outstanding performance improvement for Bolton.

Sponsored by local businesses and organisations, the first Chief Constable's Excellence Award ceremony was at the Midland Hotel, Manchester last Friday.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: "Det Sgt Greenhalgh providing clarity and structured decision-making, introducing accountability, allocating to officers responsibilities for specific areas and nominating officers to be points of contact for investigations such as bogus callers. He solved many burglaries not only in Bolton but also in Bury and Lancashire."

Det Insp Alex Millet who nominated Andrew Greenhalgh said; "As a result of tact, tenacity, self-reliance and resilience, he has formed a formidable team of officers who enjoy their work, give their best and work tirelessly to achieve remarkable results. I am delighted that he has won this award."

PC Andy Vernon, community beat manager in Horwich, was one of three finalists in the Excellence in Communication category. PC Vernon was nominated by Bolton West Area Inspector Simon Miskell for innovative schemes he has introduced during eight years in the town.

Although, PC Vernon did not win the accolade, Insp Miskell is still proud of his achievements.

He said: "The nomination was a clear demonstration of his work around Horwich town centre. Bolton had a significant number of nominations in the awards and everyone should be justifiably proud of that."