A QUICK-thinking man from Bury turned detective to help bring car thieves to justice.

Mr Nawazish Ali was presented with a Divisional Commanders Award for his actions following a violent robbery earlier this year.

As Mr Ali went to assist one of the victims, he heard a car being driven away at speed. He followed in his own vehicle and was able to record the registration number. As a result, police were able to identify and arrest the offenders.

Mr Ali received the award from Councillor Wayne Campbell, the leader of Bury Council, at a ceremony at Bury Police Station. Other Divisional Commanders Awards were presented to a number of police officers in recognition of their hard work and bravery.

Chief Inspector Anthony Simpson, PC Ian Smith, PC Gareth Johnson, PC Dominic Carroll and Mr Matt Clarke received recognition for their part in Operation Rockingham, which was launched in November 2003 and had a significant impact on reducing and detecting robbery offences across the Bury area.

PC Graham Fox received an award for his actions when a suicidal and man threatened to jump off a motorway bridge. PC Fox was the first officer on the scene and he slowly built up a rapport with the man.

And PC Neil Parker received an award for his courage, commitment and tenacity in arresting a violent offender. He was also recognised for his good work during Operation Rockingham.

Chief Superintendent Janette McCormick, Divisional Commander for the Bury division, said: "I would like to congratulate everyone who has received an award and thank them for their bravery and dedication to making Bury a safer place."