“When I saw it, I thought it was a tax letter.”

This was the reaction of Brian Seddon, from Atherton, before he opened the envelope that revealed he had won a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Year Honours List for his community work.

The former window cleaner and probation service supervisor has devoted the last 12 years to making a difference to the lives of people of all ages.

Brian, 76, said: “It was a big shock for me – I am absolutely delighted with it.

“I am just an ordinary guy from the Hag Fold estate. Things like this do not happen to us.”

Selfless Brian first got involved in community events when he helped to organise Atherton Carnival in 2007, which he has played a pivotal role in since, along with his wife Eileen.

Among the groups he runs is a weekly community cafe at Dorset Road Community Centre and a youth club at Atherton Fire Station.

Brian also organises summer camps for children as well.

But he is quick to point out that he is part of a network of like-minded people who devote their spare time to helping others.

Brian said: “Our events snowball into others. We all do our own little bit and it makes them run smoothly. That is why we we are so successful.”

Along with Brian, another community figure from just down the road made the list this year. Mike Walmsey, who lives in Tyldesley, has dedicated more than 5,000 volunteer service hours to Greater Manchester Police as a Special Constable. He is also trustee of Birtenshaw, a Bolton charity which provides care and education services for children and young adults.

He is celebrating an MBE win for his contribution, among other events, to the special constable response during the Manchester Arena attack in May 2017.

Mike led a team tasked with offering reassurance to the community after the devastating blast, which killed 22 people.

Mike said: “The day after the Manchester Arena bomb, 197 specials turned up for duty to support the community. To witness the commitment from our volunteers, wanting to change their own plans and dedicate themselves to the role was humbling."

Mike has been a special officer since 2003 after being inspired by his dad, who was a full-time GMP officer but died earlier this year.

Mike said: “I was overwhelmed when I read the letter and couldn’t believe it. My emotions were also mixed with sadness as I wanted to call my dad with the good news. I know he would have been as excited as I am."