RETIRED police officers with a passion for helping the community are taking up tools to bring peace of mind to people and businesses in Oldham.

The Trust in Blue service is staffed by former officers and provides an indoor and outdoor maintenance service, tackling the problem of finding a trusted and reliable handyman or tradesperson.

Police officers typically retire after 30 years service but many of them are eager to continue playing an active role in their local communities.

Trust in Blue gives them an outlet to do this, offering a trusted service for residents.

Members are required to prove their skills and evidence their qualifications prior to joining and all are interviewed and Enhanced DBS checked.

Managing director, Nick Orde-Powlett, hopes that the company’s unique and rigorous selection process will bring security and peace of mind to its customers.

“Our vetting process is second to none,” he said. “All of our handymen are friendly retired police officers with many years working in the local community under their belt – they understand people’s’ concerns and fears better than anyone else and they genuinely care.”

Jake Stevenson, Trust in Blue handyman, said: “Having served as a police officer I am aware there are a small number of trades people who are out to take advantage of clients.

“I also understand that it is sometimes daunting for them to allow a stranger into their homes.

“We provide a professional and trustworthy service at a fair price that is agreed prior to any work being carried out.

“As a company we will do the smaller jobs that some tradespeople are not prepared to do.

“However for me it is not all about doing the work and rushing off.

“Sometimes it’s about sitting with the older clients and having a cup of tea and a chat.

“We are also able to offer advice on other topics such as crime prevention.”

For more information go to .trustinblue.com or call freephone 0800 255 0 255.

The service is currently welcoming applications from skilled retired police officers.