A FORMER Mayor has been hailed a local hero for his lifetime of dedication to the community.

Leigh MP Andy Burnham has elected ex-Councillor Bernard Holt to receive the annual honour and will present him with his award tomorrow (Friday) at the Leigh Pensioners' Link Centre.

More than 50 MPs have chosen their local champions, nominated for service to their districts, and all are being honoured on the same day.

Link patron Mr Burnham said: "I am delighted to present Bernard with this award in honour of his lifetime of dedication, commitment and outstanding contribution to local life. He has worked hard for the good of the people of this area and given freely of his time to help others. He has a wealth of experience and richly deserves this recognition."

Mr Holt was first elected as a Golborne councillor in 1966 and served on the former town council and Wigan Council for 30 years.

An honorary alderman, he was Mayor in 1996-7 and was vice-chairman of the education committee.

He now dedicates his time to voluntary work and is chairman of governors at Golborne High, Pensioners' Link chairman and a member of Lowton Charities.

The event is sponsored by The Experience Corps which works in collaboration with the voluntary sector to encourage people over 50 to offer their skills, experience and time to actively benefit local communities through civic participation.