ON January 2, I saw one of our lovely neighbours in our back lane and went up to wish her Happy New Year.

She was a bit distressed as her long time hubby, who was a great friend, had passed away during the summer.

She said how much she missed him and also that he held her hand when he passed away. She did not know what to do, so she phoned 999 and the police arrived within moments. She said they were absolutely wonderful and asked if they could help.

Her daughter worked at a university college and the police picked her up and brought her home to comfort her mam.

She could not praise the police enough for their help at a time of trauma, but it did not end there and the very next day my lovely friend received a superb bouquet of flowers from...the police.

I am a huge fan of our police as my daughter, son in law, niece and hubby are all seriously dedicated upholders of the law. I salute you all.

Malcolm Rolling, Durham