Saddleworth villagers offer a warm farewell to popular PC Lee

Now and then... PC Lee Cullen, pictured (left) at the start of his career, retires today

The familiar face of the law, PC Lee Cullen, is retiring from GMP today with a deluge of warm-hearted congratulations from Saddleworth villagers.

In a touching message on social media, the cheerful father of two said: “How do I put into words how much I am going to miss my buddies?

“How much I am going to miss slipping my boots on at all hours of the day and night and going out and doing a job that is so unique that we all still have trouble explaining it to our nearest and dearest even after all this time?

“I have no words to use to explain eloquently my love and admiration for all members of the Police family.

"I have watched first hand up close and personal absolute dedication and commitment from colleagues right across the force, dealing with the best and worst of humanity

“My time in the Police is almost done and my 30 years up with my last day out and about being Friday.

"I don’t officially retire until October, but have stacked up my leave up and I'm slipping away early.

“There was so much I wanted to say to all of my colleagues as I shuffled to the door, but it all boils down to this.

“I can say hand on heart that the one thing I will miss the most is my colleagues - you know who you are.

"I have laughed and sobbed plenty and my colleagues, my mates have always been there to support when needed and kept me on the straight.

“My wife Sharon and my lads Joe and Brad have been an absolute rock to me and they have put up with me missing most events and special dates and they deserve medals themselves, as do all families of emergency workers who sacrifice so much so that work gets done.”

Northern Soul fan Lee was given a Chief Constable’s commendation when, as part of his work to tackle reports of antisocial behaviour, he set up the Failsworth Youth Zone after noticing the need for further youth engagement.

And in Saddleworth, he received a community award for going that extra mile to help neighbours, friends and communities.

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