It was a case of Cop Idol when pop guru Pete Waterman did the honours at an open day at Halesowen Police Station.

Hundreds of people turned out to see the music mogul when he dropped in on the station in Laurel Lane to unveil the event and to meet their local bobbies.

Police constable Pete Aston is a friend of the former Stock, Aitken and Waterman producer - they know each other through a mutual interest in steam trains and model railways.

Pc Aston said: "I've known him for some time - that's why I asked him to do this.

"He did an opening speech, posed for photographs and signed autographs.

"He was fantastic."

The open day featured vehicles including a fire engine, model railway, and American patrol car. Music was provided by four-piece band The Greater Good.

Pc Aston said: "There were various members of police staff so for police public relations it was wonderful."