A kind-hearted couple have been recognised as champions of their local community.

Jeffrey Horrocks, aged 76, and Pauline Kay, aged 59, who live in Greenbank, Horwich, received the Good Neighbour Award from local housing and care provider Places For People.

The retired pair were nominated by their neighbour in recognition of the support they offered when he was diagnosed with cancer, fell ill and was admitted to hospital.

Jeffrey thought nothing of taking his neighbour’s wife to visit him in hospital every day and the couple said they cannot thank him enough for his kindness during what was a difficult time.

Jeffrey said: “We love the area, and we couldn’t find a better place to live. We felt honoured to be nominated, especially when you hear about what other people across the country are doing too. It was very emotional.”

Mr Horrocks and Miss Kay were among 40 Places for People customers and their guests nominated for helping fellow residents, who attended a lunch in York.

David Cowans, chief executive of Places for People, who presented the awards, said the day was about celebrating and thanking people in the community who selflessly help to support and make a genuine difference to their local neighbours.

He added: “All of the nominations put forward highlight the hard work and compassion of those unsung heroes who go out of their way to help others. They don’t ask for recognition, but we want to show our appreciation for all that they do.”

The annual awards celebrate the positive contribution that residents make to their communities and lives of their neighbours.