A police community support officer has been nominated for a Greater Manchester Police award after his quick thinking 'undoubtedly' saved a man's life in Oldham. PCSO Mike Lowther was on a routine patrol in April when he encountered a man in distress.
Discovery on Ripponden Road
PCSO Lowther, a member of the Saddleworth Neighbourhood Policing Team, was conducting routine patrols on Ripponden Road in Oldham. He noticed a van parked in a remote location with its engine running and lights on. After attempting to alert the occupant without receiving any response, he opened the rear doors and discovered a man in distress.
Immediate Intervention
PCSO Lowther promptly alerted GMP to the situation and intervened to assist the man, who quickly regained consciousness following his efforts. His actions were described as displaying 'quick thinking and sound judgement', with his 'professionalism, calm decision-making undoubtedly saving a life'.
Sergeant Ryan Orme of the Oldham Response Unit commented: 'PCSO Lowther immediately activated his emergency button to alert our comms and provided running updates. He swiftly intervened to preserve the man's life and he 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.'
Officers arrived shortly afterwards, and the man was safely transported to Royal Oldham Hospital for further care. Sergeant Orme added: '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.'
Nomination for GMP Award
PCSO Lowther has now been nominated for a GMP award. Reflecting on the incident, 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.'
He continued: '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.'
