DARRENERS who make an ‘outstanding contribution’ to their town will have their names etched on a new ‘scroll of honour’ in the town centre.

A plaque, funded by Darwen Lions, will be put up outside the town hall, posthumously honouring those who go ‘above and beyond’ in their service of the town.

The scroll of honour, which will initially feature just one name, that of former Lions president Ian Ashton, will read: “In appreciation to the people of Darwen that have made an outstansing contribution to the community.”

Former Lions president Kevan Jennings came up with the idea after the death of charity champion Mr Ashton 12 months ago.

The owner of Darwen firm Controlla Covers said the scroll would be a way of remembering the contribution of Mr Ashton and other dedicated Darreners.

Recently-elected Darwen Lions president Stephen Milligan said it was important the town recognised its unsung heroes.

He said: “It is important the town marks the work and effort of some citizens to preserve the nature of the town and the community.

“As the town changes its style and make-up it is important we remember the people who have helped to build it up from a small village and also those who have helped those less fortunate in the community.

“It is good to let these people know their contributions will not go unnoticed.”

Stonemason Brent Stephenson has agreed to donate the scroll of honour and said he expected the piece of granite required to make it to arrive by the end of September.

He said: “We should turn it around in a couple of weeks and hopefully it will be ready to go up before the end of October.”