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Football legend Sir Tom Finney and England cricketer Andrew Flintoff were honoured at Lancashire's first Red Rose Awards.
The awards, sponsored by Lancashire County Council, celebrate selflessness and those who set a good example to others. Tuesday night's awards ceremony honoured Lancastrians in 11 categories.
The former England and Preston North End player Sir Tom Finney received the Lifetime Lancastrian Award from the Leader of Lancashire County Council Hazel Harding.
Sir Tom also presented The Professional Sportsperson Award to Andrew Flintoff, the ICC World One-Day Player of the Year.
The evening featured a tribute to Sir Tom from the former Liverpool and Scotland footballer Alan Hansen.
Mr Hansen said:
"Sir Tom was the best player of his generation. There are not many players now who could lick his boots."
Sir Tom, who received a lengthy standing ovation as his award was announced, said:
"I will always remember this particular night.
"The honour really belongs to many people - we have seen so many good deeds being celebrated tonight. They make me proud of my county."
Hundreds of nominations were received for the Preston Guild Hall awards that were backed jointly by Lancashire County Council, the Lancashire Evening Post, Rock FM, Magic 999, Lancashire Life and BBC Radio Lancashire.
The shortlist for the Professional Sportsperson Award included Preston snooker player Ian McCulloch (Totesport Grand Prix Finalist), Blackburn-born rugby world cup winner Will Greenwood; Burnley-born superbiker Neil Hodgson; Lancaster cyclist Jason Queally; and England rugby world cup winner Jason Robinson, formerly a Leyland resident.
County Councillor Hazel Harding, the Leader of Lancashire County Council, said:
"The Red Rose Awards are all about rewarding those who really represent Lancashire at its best.
"We had hundreds of nominations - and each represented something very special. Each one of those people is an asset to their community and to the county as a whole.
"They made me proud to be a Lancastrian. These people represent the strength of character that really sets us apart. Every society ultimately rests on the desire to work together and help others - those qualities are alive and well.
"Sir Tom has been a lifelong ambassador for quiet dignity and modesty, despite his world-renowned talent. He is also one of the nicest people you could wish to meet."
The Red Rose Awards are to become an annual event. Each of the shortlisted nominees was invited to the awards ceremony.
Notes for Editors
A full list of winners and photographs are available.
Contact 01772 533194 for further details.
For media enquiries please contact: Stephen Axon on 01772 533194
stephen.axon@css.lancscc.gov.uk
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