Catching criminals is only part of the force’s job description it would seem after a Bexleyheath policeman was pictured carrying an elderly woman’s shopping.

The photo has gone viral with more than 8,700 likes and 1,602 shares on Facebook.

The bearded officer was snapped helping a woman in a pink shirt walk along the street near Nando’s in Market Place.

On social media, Michelle Humberstone, said: “Great pic.

“For some reason I didn't think they were allowed to have beards?

“Maybe they've changed that.”

Others shared further positive experiences they have had with the police.

Roberta Watkins said: “There are some truly kind people out there and that copper is one of them.”

It has been confirmed that the police officer carried the resident’s shopping bags back to her home.

Is this the best bearded bobby you have ever seen? Email: james.parsons@london.newsquest.co.uk to tell us your experiences or tweet to @Jame5Parsons