LIFELONG Rovers fan Jimmy Yates will celebrate his 80th birthday at Ewood Park on Sunday - surrounded by his four elder brother and sisters.

Jimmy's children, Doreen and James, have organised the party at the Blues Bar and top of the guest list are his siblings Alfred Yates, 81, Sarah Eddleston, 82, Lily Holden, 85, and Esther Smith, 86.

Great grandfather Jimmy, of Douglas Place, Blackburn, said he is looking forward to the family celebration, but added that he has a very close relationship with his brother and sisters who all live nearby.

Jimmy brought up his two children on his own and worked at Blackburn Power Station for many years. Since his retirement he has remained a devoted family man and Rovers fan and walks about 10 miles a day.

He also enjoys spending time with his four grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

The five siblings, who were all born and brought up in Blackburn, are looking forward to celebrating Jimmy's milestone birthday and hope that many of their 60 great grandchildren as well as their extended family and friends will be there too.

And they all agreed that the secret to long and happy lives is lots of walking and a great sense of humour.

Jimmy is pictured, right, being toasted by his brother and sisters, from the left, Sarah, Alfred, Esther and Lily.

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