THE SHORT-LIST has been drawn up to award some of Rossendale's most deserving men at what is believed to the the first event of its kind in the North-West.

The winner of the accolade, Honorary Men of Rossendale Award, will be announced at glittering awards ceremony later this month.

Organisers were flooded with entries before a final short-list of 21 men was eventually drawn up.

Men from every walk of life have been nominated from local radio presenters to councillors and good neighbours.

The award follows on from the Rossendale Woman of the Year Award which was launched to recognise women from all walks of life.

Local campaigner Susan Troughton is behind the plans to reward the outstanding community efforts of men in the Valley.

Several years ago Susan set up CROPS, the Campaign for the Restoration of Old People's Services, when home help provision was withdrawn by Lancashire County Council.

As a local activist, who likes to help the community, Susan came up with the fitting idea.

An award ceremony is being held to celebrate men of the year in what promises to be the highlight of Rossendale Hospice's fundraising year.

Susan, who lives in Loveclough, said she has been delighted by the nominations she has received

She added: "We have had some lovely stories. The good work that Rossendale's men have been doing is finally being recognised.

"It's going to be a wonderful night."

A board from Rossendale Hospice will make the final decision.

The ceremony is being held at Horncliffe Mansion, Bury Road, Rawtenstall, on February 27, at 8pm.

Organisers are asking for raffle prize donations and auction items to be sold on the night.

Tickets are £18 and include a hot banquet buffet and live music from Bronx. Anybody wanting tickets should contact Susan at 46 Goodshaw Avenue, Loveclough, Rossendale, or on 01706 215356.

The finalists are:

Dr Christopher Ainsworth, a doctor at St James' Medical Centre, Rawtenstall, who raised money for the British Red Cross when he ran in the Great North Run.

Thomas Fisher, of Haslingden, nominated for his role as chairman of the Friends of Rossendale Museum and his voluntary work for many charities.

David Hancock, a Waterfoot councillor, who has worked tirelessly for the people of the Valley.

Jim Watts, of Waterfoot, a committed Rotarian, a trustee of Rossendale Hospice, and charity worker.

Phil Neville, England and Manchester United star who lives in Crawshawbooth and has raised thousands of pounds for local charities.

Rossendale Male Voice Choir, for their dedication and performances throughout the year.

Tony Winder, a Rawtenstall hair salon owner, one of the founder members of Rossendale Motorbike show, which raises thousands of pounds for charity at it's main event every summer;

Peter Sweetmore, of Helmshore, vice chairman of governors for children with learning difficulties, and Rossendale Hospice fundraiser.

Ted Robins, of Stacksteads, a radio presenter and charity worker for Rossendale;

Peter Gill, of Crawshawbooth, Rossendale Town Cryer, a Rotarian, and fundraiser.

David East, Rossendale Dog Warden, or his good work in the community;

Ken Bowden, of Bacup, a good neighbour who is always on hand to help people out.

Jimmy Eaton, of Bacup, an ex-mayor and ward councillor, who has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds throughout his years as a councillor.

Fred Charlton, of Rawtenstall, a good neighbour, who has done a lot in the community;

Jim Troughton, of Loveclough, helped his wife, Susan, set up CROPS and helps pensioners.

James Derbyshire, of Rawtenstall, a member of the Royal Antediluvian Order Buffaloes who has helped people in the area.

John Mason, a good neighbour who helps in the community;

Aniel Joshi, of Rawtenstall, for his community work.

Stanley Whittaker, of Rawtenstall, for his contribution to local theatre.

Bob Holmes, of Rawtenstall, for his sporting work with youths.

Graham Fletcher, of Crawshawbooth, for his work to help the community.