A MAN who has dedicated the last 12 years of his life to people of all ages was treated to a surprise party.
Brian Seddon, from Atherton, was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Years Honours List for his community work.
To celebrate his success, a special party was organised at Meadowbank Primary School.
He was greeted to a room packed out with school pupils and people he works alongside and helps in various groups along with family members.
Atherton firefighters also called in to show their appreciation for Brian, who organises a youth group at the town's fire station.
Pupils performed songs for Brian and custom-made cards were presented to him in an afternoon tea style event.
Grandad-of-three Brian, 76, said: "What they did was fantastic – it was just marvellous.
"It was emotional for me and most enjoyable.
"I don't know how my wife Eileen kept it a secret for me as it had been planned for weeks."
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The surprise event was held at the Formby Avenue school on Friday, January 31.
The former window cleaner and probation service supervisor, who grew up on the Hag Fold estate, is still struggling to come to terms with his BEM honour.
He added: "The amount of people stopping me down the street about the award has been crazy."
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