The founder of a huge Indian restaurant chain which came to Blackburn earlier this year has been recognised at an awards ceremony following his death. 

Akbar's founder Shabir Hussain has been posthumously recognised at the Prestige Curry Awards.

Earlier this month, it was announced Mr Hussain, chairman and CEO of Akbar's, had died at the age of 56. 

The chain began with just a small 28-seat restaurant in the heart of Bradford in 1995, before expanding to cities including Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow and Birmingham.

Mr Hussain received posthumous recognition at the awards, held at the Hilton London Watford earlier this month. 

Asif Iqbal, who runs the Prestige Curry Awards, paid tribute to Mr Hussain.

The Akbar's team accepted a posthumous award in Mr Hussain's memoryThe Akbar's team accepted a posthumous award in Mr Hussain's memory (Image: The Akbar's team accepted a posthumous award in Mr Hussain's memory) He said: "A visionary and pioneer, Mr. Hussain's influence extended beyond his remarkable success.

"He was known for his humility, kindness and the warmth he shared with everyone he met. 

"Though he recently passed away, his devoted team from Akbar's attended the event to accept his award on his behalf, a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he made on those around him.

"The Prestige Curry Awards have become a highly-anticipated celebration, honouring not only culinary excellence but also the inspiring stories of individuals who have shaped the industry. 

"In recognising the late Mr Hussain, we feel that we celebrated a truly deserving and remarkable individual whose life and contributions merit wider recognition."

In March, Mr Hussain was present for the lavish opening at the flagship venue next to King George’s Hall in the town centre.

After Mr Hussain died, the great and good paid tribute to the pioneering Bradford restaurateur, who was known as the "King of Curry".

Accrington businessman Purves Ali knew Mr Hussain for 30 years.

He said: “Shabir was one of the most humble and generous people you would ever meet.

“He would treat everyone the same. It did not matter who you were he was the same with everyone.

“Just seeing how he spoke to customers and people from walks of life was a real inspiration.

“I know it was big move for him to open in Blackburn after having launched in big cities in the past. He believed in the town.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council leader, Councillor Phil Riley, said: “Our town motto is Arte et Labore, ‘by skill and hard work’.

"Shabir was a perfect role model for the entrepreneurial spirit we strive to embody here with his grit, determination, and positivity.”

Deputy leader, Cllr Quesir Mahmood, added: "This is very sad news. We send our heartfelt condolences to Shabir’s family and friends. 

"He was so positive about Blackburn and has left a lasting legacy with the flagship Akbar’s restaurant in our town centre which has quickly become very popular."