FORMER Crimewatch presenter Nick Ross has received a chief constable's commendation for his help in solving about 1,000 crimes.

Cleveland Chief Constable Sean Price presented Mr Ross with the commendation at a conference in Birmingham, on Monday, aimed at encouraging more crime-busting partnerships.

Mr Ross was to present awards to organisations from across Britain who successfully fought crime and improved their communities.

But after Mr Price approached him with his award, he was clearly surprised and delighted.

He said: "I never expected to receive a chief constable's commendation because I did not run after anyone. I am honoured and delighted by this lovely gesture."

Ross has presented every episode of Crimewatch UK since it started in 1984.

The programme has featured about 3,000 crimes, including some of the most serious, such as the Brighton bombing, the M25 rapist and the murder of Nick's fellow presenter, Jill Dando.

About one-third of the crimes have been resolved, criminals put behind bars and property returned to victims.

Presenting the award, Mr Price, who is chairing the three-day Problem Oriented Partnership conference, said: "I do believe Nick Ross personally was a major factor in the show's success.

"Police took part in the show because they believed they could trust him, they felt that he was dedicated to helping solve crime, just as they were.

"Viewers trusted Nick because he did not sensationalise. He often ended his reports with the re-assuring words that violent crime was falling and urging them not to have nightmares.''

Mr Ross was recently dropped by the show after 23 years.

Mr Price said: "You will be a very hard act to follow."