John recognised for homeless charity work in the Philippines

John Flanagan is pictured in the Philippines

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Oldhamer John Flanagan has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by Leeds Trinity University thanks to his unstinting charity work amongst the poor, infirm and homeless in the Philippines.

John's work started in 2010.

He said proudly: "I work alone with no funding or sponsorship, so you can imagine the difficulties I've faced.

"However, I have also helped with other food programmes and another local organisation."

In 2015, John was the subject of a national TV documentary and a filming crew followed him around for a week recording his efforts. 

The programme - 'An Englishman in The Philippines, helping the poor and homeless' - can still be seen on YouTube (see below).

John was meant to travel back to the UK in July to collect the award, but plans are currently 'on hold' because of the coronavirus.

A presentation ceremony will hopefully take place later this year.

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