LANCASHIRE Chief Constable Pauline Clare (pictured) has been voted the North West's top woman.

Mrs Clare - the first and only woman Chief Constable in the Country - has been presented with the North West Woman of Achievement Award at apsecial recpetion in Manchester earlier this week.

The eventwas attended by more than 120 people from throughout the region to mark the achievements of more than 40 nomiees in business, industry and charitable works.

One of the judges for this year's fourth annual event, Mrs Norma Huddy, said the top award was presented to Mrs Clare because she was a woman who had 'gone an extra mile' in combining her career with a busy family life and other voluntary activities.

Mrs Clare said: "I am delighted to receive this award, particularly as I was judged by my peers. While I was the one chosen for the main award, I believe all the nominees are winners, and I would like to congratulate them."

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