RETIRED farmer Tom Swales has been honoured for a lifetime's service to village life.

Mr Swales, 79, has served on Roughlee Parish Council for 50 years and at the recent elections had twice as many votes as some other candidates.

His service to the community was recognised by the Chairman of Lancashire County Council, Councillor Don Yates.

Mr Yates presented Mr Swales with a plaque at a ceremony at County Hall.

Said Mr Yates: "Tom Swales has worked unstintingly for the good of his local community.

"His work for the parish council has taken many forms, including building and maintaining a bus shelter for the village, serving as a school governor and campaigning for a community centre for the village.

"I am sure the residents of Roughlee would join me in congratulating him on a remarkable 50 year record as a parish councillor.

Mr Swales is an honorary member of the National Farmers' Union. He and his wife, Annie, celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary in December.

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