A NEW Police Community Support Officer will be pounding the streets of Haslingden - and the former pharmacy worker is hoping she'll be a real tonic for local residents.

Hannah Gahagan, 23, is to become a familiar face in the town after joining PC Luuka Mulla, PC Dave Lomas, and PC Linda Haywood on patrol.

Hannah, who lives in Oswaldtwistle, holds a degree in criminology - something she hopes will help her in her new career.

The young PCSO said she is looking forward to taking on the new challenge.

She said: "I'm really pleased to be working as a Police Community Support Officer.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my training, and I'm now ready to get out there and meet the people on my beat."

As a PCSO, Hannah's job will involve working alongside the local community beat manager, and neighbourhood response officers, helping to combat crime and be a reassuring police presence for local residents.

Hannah's boss, Haslingden neighbourhood policing sergeant Michelle Robertson, said: "Hannah is a welcome addition to the team.

"I was delighted to welcome her on board, and I'm looking forward to working with her to help resolve local problems for the people who live, and work, in Haslingden."