TWO former Church community stalwarts, the late John Broadley and the late Alan Pearson, have been commemorated with a bench in the town's Gatty Park.

It pays tribute to their work over many years to make Church a better place for residents and visitors.

The bench, organised by local charity Church Prospects, now stands proudly in the square outside Elmfield Hall in Gatty Park.

Cllr Loraine Cox, who represents Church on Hyndburn Council, said; “The bench and plaque has been funded by Church Prospects to remember two large characters who both worked tirelessly to improve the area.

"Former Councillor and Mayor, John Broadley and lifelong local resident, Alan Pearson, helped to establish community groups and brought in funding to enhance Church.

"Both men made a huge contribution to this local community, they are sadly missed and will never be forgotten.

"They both loved this beautiful park and it’s wonderful now to have a bench here to honour their memory.”