TWO Blackburn College students have received the Young Citizen Award for their outstanding contribution to the community.

Zayna Ibrahim, 18, of Pleckgate Road, and Arif Patel, 20, of London Road, both Blackburn, were nominated by their tutors for being consistently excellent ambassadors for the college as well as being excellent role models for their peers.

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the consecration of Blackburn Cathedral last month, exChange, the cathedral's community cohesion and interfaith development agency, teamed up with Helping Hands Worldwide, the relief and developm-ent agency, to recognise and champion some of the most outstanding young citizens in Blackburn and Darwen.

Nominations were made by submitting a brief statement identifying the reason the individual deserved to receive such honourable recognition.

Jackie Keen, tutor of national diploma in public services, said: "Arif has always been willing to give up his time and extend his involvement of both college and commu-nity life".

Vicky Wood, tutor of national diploma business and legal studies, said: "Zayna is a very willing member on the course and is keen to help others in any way she can.

"Helping to organise and manage fundraising events and successfully raising money for children's charities makes Zayna a model citizen."

Arif said: "It was an honour to be even nominated for the award so I am delighted."