Over the coming weeks, we will be spotlighting winners of the Blackburn with Darwen Good Neighbours Awards. First up is Richard Grimshaw . . .

WHEN it comes to helping others Richard Grimshaw is one of the best.

In a typical week the majority of his waking hours are spent doing voluntary work for others of all ages.

And that’s why the 52-year-old is one of eight people selected as prize winners from almost 60 nominations in the borough’s first Good Neighbour Awards organised by the Lancashire Telegraph and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

The highly-praised awards are aimed at recognising people who are making a difference in their communities and finalists ranged in age from 11 to 90.

As his prize Richard wins a break for two including a day at Wimbledon during the world-famous Grand Slam tennis championships on finals weekend courtesy of Newmarket Holidays and Capita.

Everyone nominated will also receive a £25 shopping voucher for The Mall, Blackburn.

Despite having learning difficulties Richard is a key volunteer at ACT at the Cheethams, in Lawrence Street, Wensley Fold.

The project was launched 11 years ago in the former Cheethams pub as a drop-in centre open to all ages but primarily aimed at young people and his late stepfather was involved in organising its finances.

Facilities manager Sinclair Morris said: “Richard lives further along the street and the first time the doors opened he was there offering to help – and he’s been doing just that ever since.”

As well as being a place where young people can chat and play games in a youth club-style atmosphere they can also discuss issues and use quiet spaces to do homework or revise for exams.

“Richard does a wide variety of tasks including cleaning, running errands and keeping a watch on the door.

“He has even dressed up as Father Christmas for us on a number of occasions,” he said.

Two days a week Richard also does voluntary work at St Barnabas’ Church and community centre in Johnson Street.

Church warden and catering manager Maggie Vernon said: “He is useful – and very chatty! Richard makes people feel welcome and cheers them up. He is a good help and comes to church here on Sundays too.”