A TOP cop is hanging up her hat after 30 years serving the communities of Greater Manchester.

Chief Superintendent Caroline Ball was Bury's divisional commander for eight months between 2012 and 2013, during which time she oversaw a major change in the borough's policing structure.

As well as managing the transition from six force areas to two — Bury North and Bury South — she was also successful in leading a clampdown on drugs gangs, with raids being carried out on scores of properties and dozens of suspected drug dealers arrested, leading to at least 15 major convictions.

Ch Supt Ball, who was most recently divisional commander for Stockport, Tameside and Oldham, said: “I’ve met some amazing people throughout my time and I can truly say there has never been a standout moment in my career as every aspect has been a memory, be it good or bad.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside residents, partners, police staff and officers to keep communities safe and feel extremely fortunate to have worked with so many fantastic people.

“Working for Greater Manchester Police has given me some amazing memories, which I will treasure forever.”

Starting her career as a PC in Levenshulme, Ch Supt Ball first joined the force in 1986 out of a desire to help those around her.

In a career that took her around Greater Manchester, she arrived in Bury in November 2012, replacing Jon Rush, who left Bury after five years at the helm.

She left the following July to take up the same role in her native Tameside.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “I want to thank Caroline for her dedication and leadership of policing across a number of areas.

“She has made a huge contribution to the communities she has served, who have been her priority from her first day on the beat. Her commitment to the welfare of her staff and colleagues will mean she will be greatly missed by all who have worked with her.

“We wish Caroline all the best in the future.”