THREE ladies who devoted most of their adult life to the Mothers' Union have been rewarded for their dedication and commitment.

Vera Goddard, Dorothy Hartley and Jean Tipper have each been a member of Stand All Saints MU in Whitefield for 50 years.

At a special service this week, the trio, who all live in Whitefield, were presented with long service awards at the church in Church Lane.

Visiting minister Rev Isobel Halsall, of Christ Church, Walshaw, conducted a Eucharist Service in their honour.

Acting leader of the MU, Barbara Cox, said: "I found out about these certificates and thought the ladies needed recognition of their commitment. It also shows that Mothers' Union is not 'old hat' and that it is in the modern world."

The certificates were signed by the worldwide president of the MU, Trish Heywood, and Mrs Cox is hoping to arrange certificates for members in recognition of between 20 and 40 years.