Football legend and television pundit Paul Merson visited the borough for an ‘honest and up front’ question and answer session with residents.

The former England, Arsenal and Aston Villa midfield was invited by Great Harwood Rovers Football Club for their sportsmans’ fundraiser evening which was attended by more than 200 people.

Merson, who is also a regular pundit on Sky Sports, spoke about his career, his predictions for local football teams and signed autographs and pictures.

Andy Counsell, of Great Harwood Rovers FC, said it was a ‘very successful night’.

He said: “In terms of ticket sales it was our best ever as we sold 232. The room was pretty packed.

“The evening started with a bit of a question and answer session run by our MC Andy Ashworth.

“Paul talked about the Premier League saying what he thought about the teams and then talked about Stanley, Blackburn and Burnley and where he thought they might end up.

“He then talked for about an hour going through his career and both the good and bad bits and his problems with addiction.”

He added: “He was definitely honest and up front and didn’t hold anything back. He told it how it was.”

Andy said the hope to raise around £4,500 from the event which was held at the Poplar Club in Accrington.

He said: “The feedback we have had from everybody says it was both the best football speaker and comedian we have ever had and we have been doing this for over 15 years. It was a very successful night. The only challenge is to try and top that and make it better next year.” The evening also included entertainment from comedian Josh Daniels