A charity has announced details about an award which honours people who have made Blackburn a better place to live.

One Voice Blackburn and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council said the nomination process for the Leader's Award is now open.

The award for 2025 will be announced at the winner’s event on January 29 which will replace the awards dinner for that year. 

There will be no awards dinner in 2025 due to the unavailability of King George's Hall as the iconic venue is set to undergo a major revamp.

Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council,  Cllr Phil Riley, said: “This annual award gives me a great opportunity to hear about the determination of various organisations and individuals who make an extraordinary contribution to their town. The focus on unity is important.

"The strong relationships we have with people doing such great work is so powerful and helps us to improve the borough. We really can’t do enough to give them recognition.”

Debra Cartlidge was the recipient of the last Leader’s Award.

She is the chief executive of the Deaf Village, a community she has created to reduce social isolation for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Deaf individuals from across the region access the Deaf Village for communication support, independence skills, peer support, enrichment opportunities and supported living care.

Debra said: “I am thrilled and honoured to have been recognised in this way.
Right from the start, my mission has been to pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible society, particularly for our deaf community.

"Winning the award is not just a personal achievement, but also a testament to the incredible journey my amazing staff team have been on together!”

The award is judged by Cllr Phil RileyThe award is now in its ninth year and celebrates people who go 'over and above to make Blackburn better'.

Previous winners have included Blackburn Muslim Burial Society, Jamie Holman and Chris Seddon.

If you would like to nominate someone or an organisation send a 150-word explanation as to the reason for your choice. The closing date is 31 December. Nominations can be submitted to: info@1vblackburn.org

The Leader’s Award is judged and presented by Council Leader Phil Riley.