BURNLEY police has the best community support officer in the country.

PCSO Dave Johnson beat hundreds of other candidates last night to secure the honour at the Jane’s Police Review Awards, the only national awards for the police service.

Watch footage of the awards by clicking play below.

Mr Johnson, who is one of Lancashire police’s oldest PCSOs at 54, impressed the judges with his record of organising activities for local youngsters including go-karting and paint-balling.

His action in dealing with the problem of burnt out cars in Thursden Valley, which resulted in a 91 per cent drop in incidents, was also cited by the judges.

Speaking after the awards, which took place in London, Mr Johnson said: “I am absolutely delighted.

"It is superb not just for me, but for the other Police Community Support Officers working hard in local communities because it illustrates what an impact PCSOs as a whole have had, since there were introduced six years ago.”

Burnley Chief Inspector Jon Puttock said: “This award is proof that our investment in Neighbourhood Policing is paying off and proof that we have the right people in our Neighbourhood Policing Teams delivering a high quality of service to local residents.

"We are tremendously proud of Dave’s achievements and I’m sure everyone in the division will join me in offering him our sincere congratulations.”

Sergeant Martin Selway, who put Dave forward for the award, said: “Dave is well liked by everyone, extremely well motivated and he repeatedly proves he is one of the most productive CSOs.

“He has provided activities for youths, such as free running and go-karting, and started neighbourhood and rural watch schemes in various areas to unite and reassure residents.”

Councillor Tony Lambert, Chair of Worsthorne with Hurstwood Parish Council said: “Dave has worked in the area for a while now and is very well known and respected by young and old alike.

"He does a wonderful job and richly deserves this national award.”

Although Dave is spending a day or two off work to celebrate his success, he already has a number of new projects lined up including plans to raise funds for, and install, a BMX track for local youths in his area.