FOOTBALL'S longest serving physio was touched to receive his MBE from the Queen.

Sprightly Syd Parkinson, 91, the man with healing hands, was treated to a Royal appointment as he picked up his gong at Buckingham Palace.

The Barnoldswick Town physio received the award for services to football after notching up 75 years in the sport.

Syd, who was recently left homeless after a fire broke out in his home in Barrowford Road, Colne, was treated to star treatment as he spent the night in the Savoy Hotel before being taken to his date at the palace in a stretch limousine paid for by friends. He was accompanied on his big day by son John, granddaughter Charlotte and Duncan McFadyen, who was part of the Colne Dynamoes FA Vase winning team in 1988 when Syd was physio.

Duncan said: "Some people receive their awards at St James' Palace from other people like Prince Charles but Syd was presented with his by the Queen at Buckingham Palace, which was special.

"Everything went fine, he really enjoyed himself. He was a bit in awe but he did very well."

Following the presentation, where entertainer Bruce Forsyth also collected his CBE, Syd was treated to a tour round London in the limo, taking in attractions such as the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge before going on the London Eye.

Syd, who is staying at Peel Gardens Nursing Home, Colne, while his home is repaired, was nominated for his MBE by Premiership managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Sam Allardyce as well as Duncan, Bacup Town manager Brent Peters and Sky Sports producer Peter Smith.

Last Sunday a charity day in aid of local hospices and former England player Danny Wallace's MS charity among others, was held featuring the 1988 Dynamoes team, Burnley players from the 1990s and Rossendale United's 1994 North West Counties winning side.

Syd said: "I can assure everybody that I never ever have any intention of retiring. I will go on doing my job for as long as it's physically possible."