BIG business is sometimes just as much about having a big heart as it is about making big bucks.

Textile company Herbert Parkinson’s on-going commitment to helping those in need was rewarded with the Social and Community Development award.

The Darwen-based firm, which has upmarket department store John Lewis as its key customer, supports community projects not just in East Lancashire but across the region.

Those who benefit from the company’s help include Youth Works, Darwen; Nightsafe; Child Action North West; Young Carers and Blackburn and Darwen District Women’s Aid, with some of the firm’s 200 workers often giving up not only their cash but also their own time to give hands-on help.

It was this wish to go above and beyond when supporting community projects that impressed the judges.

Debbie Hall, community liaison co-ordinator for Herbert Parkinson, said: “John Lewis has always been involved with charities but a couple of years ago we brought in the role of a community liaison co-ordinator to really bring these charities to the forefront.

“We aren’t just donating money we are really getting involved.

“We are forming bonds with local groups and it gives our employees a real sense of self worth. It’s giving something back to the community and our workers are so generous with their time as well as their money.”

She added: “Business isn’t all about money. You have to think about the longer lasting impact of your business too.”

Speaking about the award, Mrs Hall said: “It was enough recognition for us that we got to the final three so to win has been extra special. We were up against two other fantastic companies.

“So, really, everyone’s a winner, especially the local community.

“Holding these awards is important to the local community because it installs a sense of pride in what we are all doing.

“Things are so different at the moment that getting people together in this way, to celebrate what we have achieved, is very important and I am glad that the awards also recognise the not-for-profit work that is also being done by companies in East Lancashire.”