MOST 95-year-olds could be forgiven for taking it easy and enjoying a quiet life.

But that is certainly not the case for Good Neighbours Award winner Richard Westhead, who twice a day makes the short trip from his home in Darwen to Bold Venture Park to pick up litter.

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He also ensures the area around the War Memorial is kept clean and tidy.

And Mr Westhead, who is a veteran of the East Lancashire Regiment and took part in the Normandy landings shortly after D-Day, has an inspiring reason for his selfless work.

“I do it to earn my pension,” said the Rydal Avenue resident.

“I like to see the area tidy and enjoy the park.

“It’s not much for me to do help out the community and I like to see the park looking good.

“The park is used by all ages and I’m proud of it.

“I reckon I’ve been helping keep it spick and span since I retired, so that will be about 30 years.”

Mr Westhead, whose wife Margaret died three years ago, was brought up in Adelaide Street, Blackburn, which has now been demolished, and worked before the Second World War at Cheery Tree Foundry.

In later life he worked at Darwen Paper Mill where he became a machine foreman.

Since retiring he has helped as membership secretary of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment and as a poppy seller and of course honours his fallen comrades each year at Remembrance services at the memorial he helps maintain.

Mr Westhead was nominated by his neighbours for the award and will enjoy a meal for two at Blackburn Rovers as his prize.

He said: “It’s grand to be thought of so nicely but I’m just doing my little bit. I’m thrilled to bits.”

Chair of the Friends of Bold Venture Park, Harry Duxbury, said: “Richard does a fantastic job in all weathers and is a credit to the park.

“I speak to him often and it’s fitting that he’s received some recognition for his community work.”