LIFELONG Bolton Wanderers fans Bill Parkinson and Eddie Birchall have been honoured by the club for the work they do helping others.

Mr Parkinson and Mr Birchall have been named as Wanderers Champions in the club's prestigious monthly awards to people who may have won a personal fight against illness, demonstrated that they are a good citizen, or enhanced somebody else's life through their actions.

Mr Parkinson was nominated by his wife, Sheila, for his work in the community, and won the award for May.

The 75-year-old, from Bolton, who has been a Wanderers fan for 66 years, has spent most of his life helping other people.

He worked for 33 years as a decorator at the Royal Bolton Hospital but had to retire due to ill health.

Mrs Parkinson, said: "Bill is remarkable man and in recent years his health has deteriorated. He had a quadruple by-pass a few years ago, followed immediately by an above-knee amputation on his right leg. Throughout all the rehabilitation and problems which he has overcome, he has remained cheerful and pleasant and an inspiration to so many people.

"I am really pleased and proud of the way he continues to cope on a daily basis and the fact he has been able to pursue his interest in Bolton Wanderers."

Farnworth resident Mr Birchall was nominated by work colleague Bernadette Tither of the New Bury Community Centre, and won June's award.

Mrs Tither said: "Eddie has recently set up a boxing club, which he runs. The club is now Amateur Boxing Association affiliated and Eddie spends additional time supporting the boxers in competition fights.

"In his spare time, Eddie often arranges camping trips, bike rides and walks for the members. He is well respected by professionals, young people and parents alike. He is a positive role model for the young people he works with and an irreplaceable asset to the community."

The pair were presented with their awards at Wanderers' home match against Charlton.

Anyone who wishes to nominate a potential Wanderers Champion should write to: Wanderers Champions, Bolton Wanderers Football Club, Reebok Stadium, Burnden Way, Lostock, Bolton BL6 6JW or email Drop a line...wandererschampions@bwfc.co.uk.