RACHEL Pallister of Bolton-by-Bowland has been recognised for her voluntary work in the community by The Rotary Club of Ribblesdale.

Club President, Professor John Sharp awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship to Rachel at the rotary club's recent Christmas party.

The award recognises Rachel's voluntary dedication to community services, and in particular 40 years service as secretary and trustee of The East Lancashire Hospice and as a director of the hospice shops.

She was also involved in obtaining a lottery grant for a major extension, a big repair programme, and spoke at the party how very proud she was of the wonderful facilities and care now provided at the hospice.

Mrs Pallister said: "I was thrilled with the unexpected award. I have been privileged to serve the hospice from the day it first opened."

The East Lancashire Hospice, Blackburn, cares for people suffering from life limiting illnesses throughout Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley.