FLAGS were lowered to half-mast at Bolton's Reebok Stadium in honour of leading Bolton charity worker Bob Brooks.

Bob, from Horwich, died last week at the age of 66. He was a founding member of the town's Lions Club, and earlier 250 mourners -- from all over the country -- had packed into the small village church of Ainsworth Methodists to pay their respects. Mr Brooks was later interred in the family grave.

Following the funeral a special memorial service was held at the Reebok where the flags were lowered.

Bob Brooks was a Boltonian through and through, educated at Bolton School. He worked as a salesman, for Unilever, then Coty and latterly for perfumers Roger and Gallet.

But, it was through his work with the Lions' organisation and its community service that Bob became known to many local people.

As well as being a founding father in 1968, he also instigated the Lions' hospital radio service -- a successful scheme which has gone from strength to strength at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Bob was also involved with the Lions at district level, responsible for 64 clubs in one of 13 districts in the UK. He travelled all over the world promoting the Lions at international conventions, but at the same time carried out his duties in the Bolton area with his usual kindly commitment.

He brought prestigious conventions to Bolton and was presented with the Lions own top award for his dedication.

Paying tribute to Mr Brooks, the President of Bolton Lions John Fairhurst said: "Bob has done a lot for the people of Bolton. He was a good man and will be sorely missed by everyone associated with the Lions Club."

Yesterday, his wife Edna, children and grandchildren heard just how much Bob Brooks was loved. And just how much Bolton will miss him.