CHARITY champ Jimmy Eaton has become the first 'non-lion' to receive a special fellowship honour presented by members of Rossendale Lions.

The Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, named after the man who founded Lions International in 1917, can be presented by clubs to anyone who has acted above and beyond the call of duty or for long service and it is usually presented to fellow lions to recognise their efforts.

Press officer Philip Tomlinson said: "It can also be given to anyone outside the club and in this particular case we felt Jimmy was a suitable recipient for all he has done over the years to raise money and put on events, concerts and meals and trips out for the elderly people mostly from Bacup.

"This is the first time Rossendale Lions have awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship to a non-lion. We felt that with all that he has done over the years we wanted to make this award."

A wooden plaque was sent from Lions International in America and the local club made the surprise presentation to Jimmy at a concert at Bacup Leisure Hall which he had arranged for local people.

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