AN East Lancashire artist has paid tribute to one of the greatest footballers Burnley has ever seen by presenting him with a portrait.

The portrait of Jimmy McIlroy was handed to the legend himself by Craig Holden, who astounded the retired midfielder with the quality of the work.

Jimmy said: “He came to me with the drawing for me to sign, but it really impressed me.

“So much so that I asked him for a photocopy of it.

“Craig turned up weeks later with a brand new drawing he had done for me and it was incredible.”

Craig, 36, a highways officer in Colne, initially Jimmy’s drew portrait in pencil as a retirement present for a work colleague.

He said: “I went to get it signed to make it extra special, but when Jimmy asked for a copy, I thought it would be fitting to draw him again.

“I couldn’t give the legend Jimmy McIlroy a photo- copy, so got to work on a new piece.”

Mr Mcllroy, a former Lancashire Telegraph sports writer, is also a keen artist.

Craig added: “I saw some of Jimmy’s work and it was really good.

“I’m flattered that he thinks so highly of my work, it was an honour to meet such a great guy.”

The Burnley icon, who has recently been nominated for the freedom of the borough of Burnley, is currently deciding on the best spot in the house to put up the portrait.

He said: “I haven’t decided where to put the drawing yet, but whenever I look at it, I’m taken back by how accurate the likeness is.

“I’m delighted with it and am very thankful to Craig for his time and effort.

Craig, who has been drawing for many years, drew the portrait in pencil over two weeks.