A WINNER has been chosen for a civic medal recipient.

Westhoughton Community Network founder Chris Buckley has been selected by Westhoughton Town Council to be this year's champion for his services to the area for over 20 years.

He has won the civic medal and will be this year's Harold Daniels Memorial Trophy holder.

Mr Buckley said: "I'm a bit surprised!

"I wasn't expecting it. I like being in the background."

Mr Buckley moved to the town in 1990, coming to work in Manchester after living in the South.

He said this move began his work with other residents: "If you are new to a town you want to do things to get involved."

One of his biggest contributions to the area is the Westhoughton Community Group, which he created alongside Harold Daniels.

The group is now in its eighth year and focused on using his marketing skills to give Westhoughton residents an online presence.

He said: "There's so many great groups. We get them together, we share information."

Mr Buckley has also put his love of music to good use, putting together community festivals.

His letter of nomination, put forward by Westhoughton Community Group members, said: "Friends and neighbours have benefitted from Chris’ computing and social networking skills saving time and money for many of us. He is a fine example of not just living in Westhoughton but making a valuable contribution to the community of Westhoughton."