Woman, 93, gets wish to ride in police car

A 93-year-old woman who has always dreamt of becoming a police officer finally got her Christmas wish to ride in a patrol car.

Faith Whitaker got to live out her dream with the help of Lancashire Police as she took a ride around her Helmshore neighbourhood.

Lancashire's Rossendale Neighbourhood Policing Team said it was "fantastic" to be able to help.

Ms Whitaker, who has lived in Helmshore for the past 14 years, said the "brilliant" experience was better than she had ever hoped for.

She said: "I've been looking forward to this, and I had a great time being out and about with the officers.

"Thank you so much to all of you for making my day."

Ms Whitaker, who was originally from the Lake District in Cumbria, moved over to Rossendale more than 30 years ago, and was visited by PC Nigel Baxter, PCSO Keely Dermody and PCSO Kirsty Bolton to fulfil her dream.

PCSO Keely Dermody said: "When we were told that it was her dream to be taken out in a police car we knew we wanted to make it happen.

"She was super excited to be able to get the opportunity, as she's always wanted to be a police officer, and her daughter was thrilled we were able to give Faith the chance to live out her dream".

Ms Whitaker said she wanted to ride in a police car because she loves watching police shows on television, like Police Interceptors.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to [email protected]