A HAVE-a-go hero and two Burnley schoolgirls who helped save a youngster when he was being savaged by a pack of dogs have been presented with a top civic honour.

Quick-thinking Robert Ashworth, 56, who risked himself to save youngster Sam Leverett from the horrific attack, was honoured for his bravery by the town's mayor and council leader at a ceremony last night.

Two schoolgirls who phoned for an ambulance also received awards.

Licia Cox and Hannah Sprowell, both 13, joined Mr Ashworth for the ceremony at the town hall where Mayor Gordon Birtwistle and council leader Stuart Caddy presented them with their certificates.

Sam, seven, of Broughton Street, Burnley, was set upon by a pack of up to six animals on Saturday, March 1.

He suffered horrific bites to his arms and legs during the attack in Tunnel Street, which went on for almost five minutes before Mr Ashworth dived in to smother him from further injuries.

He spent several days at The Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Pendlebury and underwent three operations on his 80 wounds.

Sam's dad, Jeff, 42, said: "I think it's no less than they deserve after what they did for Sam. It's an reward for their bravery and quick-thinking."

Sam, a pupil at Whittlefield Primary School, who has a brother Errol, 24, and two sisters, Charlotte, 17 and Georgina 15, is now back at school.

Mandy Cox, 16, and Jaqueline Cox, 38, both of Penistone Street, Burnley appeared before Burnley magistrates earlier this week in connection with the attack.

They were reported for summons for owning a dog, or dogs and allowing it, or them to be out of control in a public place and causing injury to a person. The case was adjourned for until April 30.

Ronnie Cox, also of Penistone Street, was not in court, but is expected to appear at a later date.