A CHARITY concert has been chosen as the setting for a tribute to one of Accrington's most dedicated RAF heroes.

The Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) will be making a presentation to Gilbert Walmsley, of Bold Street, Accrington at the annual concert at Accrington Town Hall on Sunday.

Mr Walmsley, deputy chairman of the Accrington branch of the RAFA, will receive one of only five long-service awards to be given in the Lancashire area this year.

The presentation, which normally takes place at the area conference in Blackpool, will be witnessed by Mayor John Williams and made by Air Commodore Gill of Clitheroe, who has been in the RAF since 1959 and was awarded a CBE in 1993.

The charity event, in its third consecutive year, hopes to raise funds for RAF members and the welfare fund.

Mr Parsons, one of the event organisers, said: "Last year we raised £300 and we hope to do better this year."

The concert, with well known East Lancashire Concert Band and the Red Rose Singers, begins at 2pm. Price: £3.50 including refreshments.