THE countdown to the first Bury Man of the Year has begun. The award winner will be announced on January 25 at a dinner dance at the Longfield Suite in Prestwich.

In October last year, the borough's six area boards were asked to put forward deserving nominees for the accolade.

They have since been shortlisted to six finalists, representing each board.

Mervyn Reeves, fund-raising manager for Bury Hospice, said: "This is the first Bury Man of the Year and so far it has gone well.

"The award complements Bury Woman of the Year, acknowledging and celebrating the work men do in their local community. All the nominees have in some way given up their time voluntarily to help others. They are from all walks of life."

A special trophy, in memory of the late Bury Hospice chairman Colin Caffrey, has been designed for the overall winner, with each of the nominees receiving an award for their hard work.

Mr Reeves added: "Hopefully as well as recognising the work men do, the concept of Bury Man of the Year will raise the profile of the causes the men have worked for as well as raising the profile of Bury Hospice."

Tickets for the formal dinner dance cost £20, which includes food and entertainment. They are available from the Bury Hospice Office on The Rock, Bury.