A HARD-working pensioner has been recognised for her efforts with a surprise award.

Astley and Mosley Common Clrs Barry Taylor, Brendan Bowen and Jo Platt awarded Marian Latchford with a Heart of the Community Award.

The councillors surprised Marian with the award at Astley Pensioners Club’s luncheon meeting where she volunteers.

Marian said: “I was shocked to be presented with the award but the sessions are important to our members; our luncheon club is where they can relax, be waited on and served a good meal whilst in good company.”

The Luncheon Club was formed in 1962 and has been kept going by kind hearted volunteers ever since.

Clr Taylor said: “We have met with the group a few times and were completely blown away by the hard work that Marian puts in.”

The luncheon group meets every Wednesday from 11am until 1pm while social evenings take place every Tuesday between 6.30pm and 8.45pm at the Astley Pensioners Hut on Manchester Road.