Wigan community stalwart awarded by The Pope

Phil Livesey who has been a pivotal member of the communities of Aspull, New Springs and Whelley for more than 30 years has been awarded the Benemerenti Medal by His Holiness The Pope.

The 61-year-old was a teacher at Our Lady’s Primary School in Aspull for many years and remains a big presence at Our Lady’s Church in Aspull.

He was also one of the founder members of Aspull Forum which was set up by Coun Chris Ready in 1999.

Phil is involved in so many groups in one capacity or another from forums, walking groups, gardening groups and is still involved in school activities.

Father Kevin Foulkes, who nominated Phil for the prestigious award, said “He has more fingers in pies than Greggs, Galloway’s and Greenhalgh’s put together!”

He went on to say how proud the church and the congregation were of Phil after surprising him with the award at Sunday mass.

Phil said: “I’m overwhelmed with all the comments and compliments and feel so lucky to work and live in an excellent community. It clearly is a team effort with great schools, great volunteers and great councillors.

"I know that this award is only giving out sparingly and the couple of people I do know who have received it are very highly thought of so it is very moving to be in such company.

"The Benemerenti Medal is a Catholic award which is given for things you do for your parish but also, importantly, for your community too.

"Usually when these medals are presented, a partner will be quietly contacted to make sure you’re going to turn up for the surprise presentation but as I’m not married, Fr Kevin did ring advance to make sure I’d be smartly dressed without letting on why!”

Couns Chris Ready, Ron Conway and Laura Flynn issued a joint statement saying: “Phil is such a special person. He cares about people and communities, never takes credit for anything and does it all with a smile on his face.

"We’ve worked with Phil on many projects over many years and it’s a real honour to call him a friend. This award is so well deserved.”