A TAUNTON PCSO has been voted a top cop by local residents.

Claire Escott who patrols in Priorswood said she was “flabbergasted” to learn she had been nominated for a Pride Award.

She received the special commendation which praised her “quiet and unassuming” approach, from Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens at a ceremony at police HQ in Portishead.

Afterwards she said: “I was flabbergasted to find out I’d been nominated for the award. It was completely unexpected and nice to have some recognition for what I consider to be just doing my job.”

Ms Mountstevens praised Claire and the other PCSOs, adding: “If only people could hear half of the stories that people tell me, I have no doubt that it would make them feel as proud as I feel.

“It is important for us all to take a moment to reflect on what has been achieved and when you do it is incredibly heart-warming.”