FOUR hard-working pensioners received Easter honours from the Queen.

Ninety-three-years-old Evelyn Orrell, of Lowton, Helen Dunning, of Platt Bridge, Randall Fitzpatrick, of Hindley and Wallace Sheridan, of Golborne, were among 156 recipients of Maundy money at a service in Liverpool Cathedral.

The coins, with a face value of 78p to mark the Queen's age were personally distributed by HRH to 78 men and 78 women chosen for their service to the church and the community.

Over 2000 people attended the centuries old ceremony at which the nominees received white purses containing specially minted silver coins and red purses which traditionally contain a small allowance for food and clothing.

One of the oldest recipients Mrs Orrell has been a supporter of Lowton St Mary's Church for over 90 years.

Still an active member of the Mothers' Union and a former Sunday School teacher she was nominated by church warden, David Kay.

A mother-of-three, grandmother of 13, and great grandmother of 20 Mrs Orrell was born near Leeds and moved to the area when she married 72 years ago and has lived in the same Lowton home for 70 years.

A widow of 22 years she delivered the church magazine for over 50 years, collects an arthritic neighbour's pension and still helps to organise jumble sales!

She said: "I have lived all this time and never met the Queen. It was a day my family and I shall never forget."

Miss Helen Dunning, described as an octagenarian 'whirling dervish, has been a lifelong member of St Nathaniel's Church, Platt Bridge.

Mr Fitzpatrick, 75, has been a lifelong member of St John's Church, Hindley Green, and is the Gift Aid secretary.

Mr Sheridan, 81, is said to aid others in a quiet and unassuming way both within St Luke's Church, Lowton, and in the community.