TWO East Lancashire recipients of honours will receive their medals at Lancaster Castle next month.

On Friday May 3 its historic and majestic setting, Shire Hall, will host a special ceremony.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, will present British Empire Medals (BEM) on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III to recipients from the county commended in the recent New Year Honours List for services to their local community.

The BEM recipients will include Waqas Arshad, from Nelson, the chair of Bradley Big Local for his services to families with mental health issues in Lancashire.

Also receiving his BEM will be John Fielding, from Accrington Scout Leader, 2nd Rishton Baptist Scout Group, for his services to young people and the community in Lancashire.

Other recipients will be Bernard Vause, from Morecambe, for his services to music and to the community in Morecambe; and Russell Walters from Lytham St Annes - the Director, Cardiff Cymru and Careline Coordinator, Care for the Family - for voluntary service in Wales.

Mrs Parker said: "I am delighted to see such deserving people from Lancashire being recognised by the award of the British Empire Medal.

"It will be a privilege to present them on behalf of His Majesty The King."

Joining Mrs Parker on the evening will be the Chairman of Lancashire County Council, Alan Cullens; the new High Sheriff of Lancashire, Mrs Helen Bingley, and the Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Christine Kirk, as well as a number of Deputy Lieutenants from across the county.