A CRICKETING legend and a long standing councillor are to receive an award for service to the area.

David 'Bumble' Lloyd, from Accrington, and Cllr Bernard Dawson, who represents Huncoat on Hyndburn Council, will be nominated to be Honorary Freeman of the Borough at a council meeting on Thursday.

Mr. Lloyd rose to fame playing cricket for Accrington Cricket Club and county cricket for Lancashire, being awarded the Lancashire Captaincy for 1973.

He went on to coach the England Cricket Team in 1996.

During the 1960’s he also played semi-professional football for Accrington Stanley Football Club and continues to be a keen supporter of the Club.

Since 1999 he has been a regular Sky Sports television commentator.

The 70-year-old said: "I was gobsmacked when I first found out, it's a lovely honour.

"It's terrific, I'm very pleased, it's humbling.

"There are a lot of people far more deserving than me but it's nice to be thought of."

Cllr Dawson has served on Hyndburn Council for almost 38 years, representing the Peel ward for 34 years, but will not be standing for re-election at the local borough elections in May.

He also held the position of Mayor of the Borough of Hyndburn in 1999/2000 and since 2013/14 has served as a Lancashire County Councillor for the Accrington South Division.

Hen said: "It came as a surprise to me, it wasn't expected at all.

"It's a very nice honour to receive.

"I think when you look at people who have won it in the past it's an honour to be associated with them.

"It's nice to be nominated alongside David, we grew up together just a few streets apart, and we're both Stanley fans.

"I decided to step down because I thought it was time someone else had a go.

"It will be good to get new faces with new ideas."

The freedom of the borough is the highest award that the council can bestow and is given to local people who have rendered eminent services to the borough.

The pair are expected to be presented with the award at the Mayor-making meeting of the council in June