A WIRRAL schoolgirl has been praised by the borough’s top cop after handing in £4,500 after finding it in New Brighton.

Bethany Weir was on her way to buy ice pops last August when she spotted a makeup bag lying on the pavement close to shops on Victoria Road.

The 14-year-old immediately knew what to do, taking the money to the nearest shop and asking staff to call the police.

This week, the St Mary’s Catholic College student was commended for her honest by Wirral’s top police officer, Chief Supt John Martin.

She was presented with a Merseyside Police Certificate of Merit for handing it the money – which has since been returned to its rightful owner.

Bethany’s mum Carol said: “We are very proud of Bethany. She immediately did the right thing.

“She panicked at first because she thought she might be in trouble for just finding that amount of money.

"We found out later that it belonged to a woman who thought she had lost all her holiday savings."

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: “In recognition of the responsible and trustworthy demeanour displayed by Bethany, Chief Supt Martin presented a Merseyside Police Certificate of Merit on May 6.”

Bethany’s headteacher Tony Boyle added: “Bethany’s actions are to be highly commended and admired.

“This was a great test of character and in doing the right thing so promptly, Bethany has set an excellent example as well as being an outstanding role model for all young people.”