WORLD-FAMOUS designer Wayne Hemingway has backed the Blackburn with Darwen Your Call/Good Neighbours Awards as the pace of entries speeds up.

Already the nominations for the scheme, with prizes including a Wimbledon tennis holiday and a two day luxury spa break, have broken the 50 barrier.

Two dozen have come in over the last week as the search continues for residents who make a real difference to the lives of people in their streets.

The awards will pay tribute to helpful neighbours who have never been recognised before for their efforts.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has teamed up the Lancashire Telegraph, Capita and Blackburn Rovers to recognise the unsung heroes who make borough life better.

Now Blackburn-raised Mr Hemingway, founder of the iconic Red or Dead brand, has joined Prime Minister David Cameron, Labour leader Ed Miliband, local politicians, religious leaders and the town’s health bosses in supporting the awards.

He said: “Most people choose to live in towns and cities because as human beings, on the whole, we get on with and enjoy the company of and the value gained from interaction with other human beings.

“It does seem rather daft to be anything other than a good neighbour.”

Borough council leader Kate Hollern said: “I have been overwhelmed by the many examples of good neighbours that are coming in. Each nomination tells a story of someone who really cares about making their neighbours’ lives better.

“People who act as good neighbours are doing their bit. They make their communities tick and ask for no reward.”

Coun Hollern added: “Let’s make no bones about it. Things are very difficult at the moment.

“The public sector has seen savage cuts and this is having a major impact on people and families especially vulnerable ones.

“The only way we are going to get through this is if people all work together and fight together.”

Mr Cameron said: “It’s great to see the Your Call/Good Neighbours campaign recognising those who are working to make their streets a better place.”

Five prizes are on offer – a Wimbledon tennis holiday for two in London; a spa break for two at the Stanley House Hotel in Mellor; a full-hospitality visit to a home game at Ewood Park as a guest of Blackburn Rovers; a meal for two at The Pack restaurant and bar in Belthorn and full set of nails/ specialist manicure at the Nail Room, Bolton Road, Blackburn.

To nominate someone, fill out Blackburn with Darwen Council's online nomination form or download, complete and return a nomination form.

The closing date for nominations is Monday, April 8.

How to enter

To nominate someone, fill out Blackburn with Darwen Council's online nomination form or download, complete and return a nomination form.

The closing date for nominations is Monday, April 8.