A POLICE officer who helped a thief turn his life around has been honoured for his work.

PC Mark Garfoot met the man after he stole wine from a shop.

Having been helped get his life back on track, the man, who has asked not to be named, nominated PC Garfoot for a Wow Award.

He said: “I deserve the punishment I received and I should have had the book thrown at me but they were patient and understanding and helped me seek support from the Durham Police drug and alcohol worker.

“Their professionalism and approach to try and help me saved me from further crime and sinking into a deep alcohol depression.”

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg said: “This is an excellent example of how the actions of individual officers can make such a difference, not only to the victims of crime, but to offenders who can be supported and diverted away from crime.”