Syd Parkinson from Colne was awarded an MBE after nearly 80 years involvement in grass roots football in Lancashire.

And he will now enjoy a special day at Buckingham Palace to receive his medal, although it will have to fit around his football activities as he is still involved with Barnoldswick Town in the West Lancs League.

Manchester United manager Ferguson said: "He is a truly remarkable character. For a man of 91 to still be doing what he does for football and for people in general is nothing short of astonishing.

"His dedication, enthusiasm and kindness is an example to everyone and our game certainly needs people like him. He should really enjoy his big moment at Buckingham Palace because he genuinely deserves his recognition."

And Bolton boss Allardyce added: "Syd astounds everyone with his burning enthusiasm and knowledge. For a gentleman of his age to still be able to run on the pitch and think nothing of it almost defies belief.

"He once joked to me that he wasn't a full shilling because he was still bounding on to football pitches, but I told him it is because he loves what he does and long may it continue.

"I am very proud of him and so should anyone connected with football. If anyone in our game deserves an MBE, it is him."

Parkinson began his association with football with the Rolls-Royce team in Barnoldswick where he was a player, manager and trainer until 1979, apart from the six years he spent in the RAF during the Second World War.

He then joined Colne Dynamoes where he enjoyed plenty of success. Six promotions took them from the Lancashire Combination to the Northern Premier League and there was even a trip to Wembley thrown in for good measure.

Parkinson thoroughly enjoyed his trip to the Twin Towers in 1988 as Dynamoes won the FA Vase with a 1-0 win over Emley.

Spells at Salford City and Rossendale United followed before he returned to Barnoldswick in 1997 where he remains a key figure with his magic sponge.

Super Syd remains unnecessarily modest about his MBE despite his amazing dedication to football.

"To receive the MBE is a totally unexpected surprise," he said Syd. "It is absolutely marvellous and a truly wonderful honour, but, to be honest, I keep wondering what all the fuss is about."