RETIRED prison officer Keith Eccles has had over 27 years of service honoured with a medal.

A Darrener born and bred, Keith was presented with the Imperial Service Medal in a special ceremony at Risley Prison, where he had worked from 1973 until his retirement last year.

A staunch Blackburn Rovers supporter, Keith, 60, travelled all over the country with his work, taking in Preston Prison, Coldingly Prison in Surrey and Risley.

Accepting his award, Keith said: "I have loved every minute of my career. My late wife Barbara was my inspiration - even when she was ill with cancer she wanted me to continue with my career. Without her support I would never have received the medal."

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