Inspirational volunteers who are helping to make Blackburn and Darwen a better place to live have been honoured at a special ceremony.
The 2024 Community Volunteer Awards took place at King George's Hall on Thursday and were hosted by radio host Graham Liver.
Organisers said 1,500 nominations were received this year, and winners were announced in 20 categories.
The annual event is jointly arranged and hosted by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Community CVS, with support from local businesses and community organisations.
Richard Croasdale was named Volunteer of the Year and Judith Houghton received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Community Involvement Award went to the Darwen Community Helpers and the Good Neighbour Award was presented to Vicky Kelly.
The CVS Special Award for Outstanding Service went to Chris Seddon.
Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Phil Riley, said: “For the past few years, we’ve seen more and more nominations for people and groups who work hard to make the borough a great place to live.
"To receive over 1,000 nominations this year makes me very proud – it highlights just how much residents value these awards as a way to thank and recognise local support networks and individuals.
“It is absolutely right that their efforts are celebrated, and I hope all the finalists enjoyed attending the event in King George’s Hall.”
"Community spirit is definitely strong within Blackburn with Darwen. I am blown away about the voluntary efforts that take place across the Borough.
"Congratulations to the Winners, Runner Ups, everyone who has been nominated and everyone who volunteers. Thank you for everything you do to help make a difference.
"To anyone who might not have taken the plunge – why not have a go. Together we can achieve so much more.
"May I thank all of our sponsors, who support the awards and everyone who helps out. Without your support – we would be unable to put on this remarkable event.”
Chief executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Denise Park, added: “Every year this event reminds me just how lucky we are to have so many voluntary groups and individual volunteers who give up their own time to support other people.
"Blackburn with Darwen is stronger for having them, and I’d like to add my thanks to them all for everything they do.”
All the winners at the 2024 Community CVS Awards
Health and Wellbeing Award:
Individual – Sahil Usman
Group – Blackburn Foodbank
Prosperity, Learning and Employment:
Individual – Sandy Woods
Group – Offload Northwest
Grass Roots Community Action:
Individual – Samantha Nye
Group – Roots Community
Young People’s Award:
Individual –Emma Evans
Group – Blackburn Youth Darts Academy
Renee Black Award:
Neuro Dynamix
Environment Award:
Individual – Wayne Dixon
Group – Little Potting Club
CVS Special Award for Outstanding Service:
Chris Seddon
Culture, Leisure and Sporting Life Award:
Individual – Keith Brunt
Group – Mill Hill Festival
Lindsay Dunn Award:
Individual – Muaaz Nadat
Group – Phoenix Hub
Community Involvement Award:
Darwen Community Helpers
Good Neighbour Award:
Vicky Kelly
Volunteer of the Year:
Richard Croasdale
Lifetime Achievement Award:
Judith Houghton
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