FOR men used to braving the elements on life-saving missions little must come as a surprise.

But three local heroes really did not know what to expect when an informal chat with the mayor turned into a presentation ceremony -- in their honour.

The three members of Bolton's Mountain Rescue team were left speechless when they received long service awards at a special ceremony held at the town hall.

The men had no idea their team mates had arranged the event and were expecting to chat to Bolton Mayor, Cllr Kevan Helsby, about the Mountain Rescue website.

But they were thrilled to be presented with the certificates by the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Alice Kilcoyne.

Alan James, who lives in Worsley, was a founder member of the Bolton team in 1968 and is just as passionate about the rescue work today as he was when he trained 33 years ago.

The 53-year-old, who works for British Aerospace in Kent and is known to everyone as the "General", wishes he could dedicate even more time to the voluntary work.

Mr James, who is an Honorary Life President of Bolton Mountain Rescue, said: "I'm very pleased to receive the award.

"I wish I could be involved more, but as I'm now working in Rochester I can't put in as many hours as I used to."

John Davis, who also received the long service award, joined Bolton Mountain Rescue in 1971.

The 49-year-old, who also lives in Worsley, said: "Today has been a complete surprise, but really lovely.

"It doesn't seem like 30 years ago since I joined and I still love the work."

Geoff Seddon, aged 51,who lives in Horwich, joined the crew in 1969 and was thrilled to receive the award.

He said: "I still get a real buzz from going out on a rescue. The nature of the job has not changed that much over the past 30 years, but we get called out a lot more because the emergency services know we can work with them."

In praising the three men Cllr Helsby said: "These three people have achieved a remarkable record of service which is almost unique.

"Only 18 of these awards have been given out nationally and to have three in Bolton on one day is a fantastic result."