Finney is 'Lancashire's greatest'

BBC North West Tonight viewers saluted Sir Tom

Former England football legend Sir Tom Finney is the greatest ever Lancastrian, according to a BBC poll.

Sir Tom beat the likes of ex-singing star Gracie Fields and late politician and British prime minister William Gladstone.

The vote, organised by BBC North West Tonight and BBC Lancashire Online, put Sir Tom in first place with 45% of the votes.

When he was told about the accolade, Sir Tom said: "It's a great surprise to me, and a great tribute."

Sir Tom played for Preston at the height of his career

The former Preston North End hero's nearest rival was inventor Samuel Crompton.

Crompton, who created the spinning mule for the cotton industry, was a driving force behind the industrial revolution.

But his work for the Red Rose county was not enough to eclipse Sir Tom, who said he has always been a proud Lancastrian.

Speaking to BBC North West Tonight, Sir Tom said: "To think that people have taken the trouble to vote anyway, let alone for me, I'm really appreciative of that - it's a great honour.

"I can think of many people who have done more for Lancashire than I have."