A TV channel that showcases "good people and good deeds" has been launched in Fushun, Liaoning province.

It is named after Lei Feng, a soldier who was known for helping others and has long been held up as a virtuous example for people to emulate. Lei, whose military unit was based in Fushun, died aged 22 in 1962.

Shang Zeyou, director of Fushun's TV station, said the city should play an active role in teaching the public about Lei and promoting the core values of socialism. The channel is the first in the country to be named after Lei.

Fushun, known as "the city of Lei Feng", already has a road, a memorial hall with a museum, two schools and a bank office named after Lei.

"The launch of the Lei Feng Channel is intended not only to help educate local residents, but to encourage all the residents in the city, and in the entire country, to learn from Lei Feng in the years to come," Shang told local media.

"All our staff members have put great energy and enthusiasm into preparing and operating the Lei Feng Channel. The project was planned by the television station and other departments in Fushun last year."

In the spirit of helping others, Shang said he would send volunteers to major public venues and other parts of the city to educate litter bugs and teach people how to cross the road safely.

Some foreign visitors have complained that the Chinese do not wait for the green light and instead surge across the road if a large enough group of pedestrians has gathered.

Zhang Xiuli, the channel's executive managing director, said most of the programs it broadcasts will feature "fine people" and good deeds taking place around the country, good news and individuals who set a good example.

The channel was welcomed by many of the city's residents when it started broadcasting this month.

However, one elderly man, who declined to give his name, said it should not exclusively broadcast shows about good people and good deeds.

"The channel should also feature some negative news and expose uncivilized behavior by local residents," he added.

Lei, a native of Hunan province who earned praise for selflessly helping others, was killed in a traffic accident in Fushun.

He became a well-known figure after his death when Chairman Mao Zedong called on everyone in the country to learn from his example.

March 5 has been designated "Learn from Lei Feng Day" by the Chinese government.

This day is marked by school and community events, with volunteers giving up their time to clean up parks, schools and other community sites.

His story has been told in songs, full-length biographical films and even an online game.

Zheng Caixiong contributed to this story.

(China Daily USA 04/09/2015 page5)