A KIND-HEARTED police constable "made a world of difference" to a pensioner who fell victim to a robbery.

Audrey Macfarlane, aged 77, was walking in a Radcliffe street when her handbag was stolen and she was pushed to the ground.

The day after the incident, PCs Graham Fox and Shaun Whittaker took it upon themselves to cheer her up with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

Bury-based PC Graham Fox, aged 54, said: "The day after Audrey was robbed, I decided we were going to get her some flowers.

"I remember my mum getting mugged on the street years ago.

"I knew the lady lived on her own. I thought it would perk her up a bit.

"It was only a £20 bouquet but it makes all the difference.

"Audrey was ecstatic when we arrived with the flowers."

PC Fox, who retires from the police on May 9, added: "It is nice to go out on a good note.

"The police officers who work at Bury are second to none.

"I have enjoyed every minute I have worked here but it is time for me to have a fresh start."

After the robbery, PC Fox visited Palmers Florist, in Ainsworth Road, Radcliffe, and requested that a large bouquet be made up comprising chrysanthemums, gerbera, roses, bouvardia and other blooms.

Greater Manchester Police donated £10 and the remaining £10 was contributed by the florist.

A spokeswoman for Palmers Florist said: "She is a lovely lady. We see her passing by all the time.

"When the officers came in, we thought it would be a nice thing to do for her."

A woman was arrested and charged with personal robbery. She has since been detained.