AN EAST Lancashire fireman who survived some of the SAS's most gruelling selection tests to win a TV reality show is to be honoured by the Mayor of Burnley.

Coun Lilian Clark has invited James Barrow, winner of BBC 2's SAS: Are You Tough Enough?, to a special civic reception at Burnley Town Hall this week.

James, who is based at Burnley fire station, joined 23 volunteers chosen from hundreds of hopefuls as they were put through their paces in the Namibian desert in Africa.

The show challenged contestants to take part in some of the elite regiment's toughest selection tests, including 50km hikes, escape and evasion trials and interrogation.

The original group was slowly whittled down as those who failed to make the grade quit, or were thrown off the course, and the final four had to plan, prepare and complete an undercover mission to rescue a hostage.

After the final challenge James, 33, of Rochester Drive, Burnley, was chosen by experienced members of the SAS as the competitor they would most want to accompany them on a mission.

On Thursday his achievement will be recognised by the Mayor.

Coun Clark said: "Once again, it is a pleasure to recognise the achievements of a local lad. Jimmy's family and everyone in our borough is immensely proud of this recognition of his qualities.

"This is a man who, as a firefighter, spends every day relying on the qualities he displayed in the competition. They said that one reason Jimmy won is that although quiet, he was always there and they could rely on him for back-up 100 per cent. I think this is a fair representation of the officers in our fire service."

James, who is married to Nikki, 31, and has two children, will be joined at the civic reception by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service area commander for the Pennine division, Mike Painter, and Station Commander for Burnley Fire Station Dave Jackson.