Hard-working PCSOs a hit

“Committed, understanding, involved and respectful”.

These are the words used to describe PCSOs Joanna Haigh and Anna Pun, who have been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award by The Friends of Stoneleigh Park.

Serving the Derker community, the pair, who have worked together in the area for three years, have impressed this voluntary group with their dedication and hard work through what has been a turbulent time for the once run-down area.

Angela Cosgrove, of The Friends of Stoneleigh Park, said: “As a voluntary community group, we feel that their commitment, understanding, involvement and respect is outstanding, above and beyond what residents expect.

“Derker has gone through several years of change, upset and challenging issues and yet they have been there for all community members, from calling in on our vulnerable residents to working with young people to gain respect and understanding.

“Together they have gained a great deal of respect from community members, young and older.

“The members of Friends of Stoneleigh Park would really like to show our appreciation for the work they do and the way they have become part of our community, which is why we’ve nominated them for a Pride in Oldham award.”

Honour

Proud to receive the nomination, PCSO Pun said: “It’s quite an honour to know the residents have put pen to paper to do this, and we feel really appreciated. The job can be a difficult one but we really enjoy it.”

PCSO Haigh added: “We feel very proud, but this is just part of our job. I’ve been working there for about seven years so it’s nice to be recognised and know that the residents have gone out of their way to nominate us.

“There have been a lot of bad times in Derker but there are more good times now as it’s undergoing so much regeneration.

“There are been issues with anti-social behaviour and crime but the area is coming out the other end of that now, and we really enjoy working there.”