Incredible gesture by kind Peterborough police officers to help family in need - even buying child birthday presents

Officers came into contact with the family after the mum collapsed in the street - but when the team took her home to make sure she was safe, the officers were keen to go the extra mile and help as much as they can.

The officers, who have not been named, posted about their experience on social media and said: "In our job we often come across some not very nice people, some of the worst in fact, but this week we have been shown just how wonderful it can be when a community pulls together.

"The other day, we attended a report of a woman who had collapsed in the street – she had been out walking when she had an epileptic seizure but managed to get to a nearby house and ask for help.

"Ourselves and the ambulance service attended, and the woman was taken home to her partner and child where she was then checked over by paramedics.

"While we were at the house we noticed there was no food in the kitchen, and supplies for the young child were running low. We also learnt it was the child’s first birthday the previous day.

"The family admitted they were struggling but were embarrassed to ask for help, something we know happens more often than many will realise.

"On hearing this, we went over to the local food bank who instantly produced two very large boxes of food, along with packs of nappies, wipes and personal hygiene products, even a tin opener for the food! They did all this straight away. What was heart-braking was seeing how many families were queued to collect food.

"We then went over to Smyths Toy Store in Boongate to buy the child some toys for their birthday (out of our own money), but when the shop staff learnt why we were there, they allowed us to pick a load of toys and then gave us a discount as a token of good will.

"We were so moved by the kindness of others at such a tough time, we just want to say thanks!"