Quick-thinking PCSO saves man's life while on patrol in Oldham

The quick-thinking from one of our PCSOs helped save the life a man in distress.

PCSO Mike Lowther was conducting routine patrols on Ripponden Road in Oldham in April when he noticed a van parked in a remote location with its engine running and lights on.

PCSO Lowther, of the Saddleworth Neighbourhood Policing Team, attempted to alert the occupant to his presence.

When these attempts received no response, he opened the rear doors to discover a man in distress and trying to take his own life.

Sergeant Ryan Orme, of our Oldham response Unit, said: “PCSO Lowther immediately activated his emergency button to alert our comms and provided running updates.

“He swiftly intervened to preserve the man’s life who quickly regained consciousness.

“Showing quick thinking and sound judgement, PCSO Lowther removed the vehicle keys from the ignition and continued to engage with the male, despite initial confrontation.

“Officers attended shortly afterwards and the man was safely transported to Royal Oldham Hospital for further care.

“PCSO Lowther’s actions throughout this incident were highly commendable.

“His professionalism, calm decision-making, and instinctive intervention were directly aligned with the objectives of neighbourhood policing being visible and accessible.

“His actions undoubtedly saved a life and exemplify the value of being proactive, vigilant, and professionally curious while on patrol.”

PCSO Lowther has now been nominated for a GMP award.

He said: "In the days that followed the incident, I found myself reflecting on just how quickly an ordinary patrol can turn into a moment that changes someone’s life.

"Working in remote, rural areas like Saddleworth means I often come across situations where help isn’t immediately at hand, and that reality hit me more deeply than ever during this incident.

"I’m proud to serve as a PCSO for Saddleworth North. Proud to work in a community where being present, being vigilant, and being willing to step forward can genuinely make a difference.

"Rural policing can be challenging and unpredictable, but it’s moments like this that remind me why I do this job."

Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action

• The Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action will take place from 15 to 21 June. Neighbourhood policing is more than a role – it is a specialism that requires knowledge, skill and strong leadership.  
• Officers and PCSOs working in neighbourhood teams are often the first point of contact for local people, building trust, preventing crime and dealing with the issues that matter most to the communities they serve, including anti-social behaviour. 
• We have around 1,400 neighbourhood officers working across 38 teams – they are based in all 10 of our districts.