TENSIONS between Asian and white communities in Burnley were highlighted in the aftermath of the Burnley riots two years ago.

But in Blackburn two men were determined to prevent a similar situation using the best weapon they could -- football.

Iqbal Bhai and Ismail Esat organised a tournament for teams from 16 Blackburn community centres, including youths from many different backgrounds, to unite in the national game.

The pair, who work at Audley Community Centre, first employed the tactics several years ago to bring Asian and non-Asian youths together.

They have now been nominated for our Pride of East Lancashire Spirit of Sport Award by local policeman, Sgt Paul Goodall.

He said: "They have done a fantastic job over the years helping us tremendously to get race relations up and running.

"They have worked tirelessly for many years, not for their own self aggrandisement, but for the benefit and greater good of the community.

"Much of their time has been given freely to the projects that they have been involved in because they recognise that sport can play a major role in breaking down social and cultural barriers.

"I believe that their efforts have contributed to a 'peaceful' Blackburn, when you consider the racial tensions that have plagued other towns in Northern England in recent years."

Iqbal and Ismail worked with police in the early 1990s to form the Hawthorn League in the Brookhouse and Little Harwood areas. This summer football league later became known as the Unity in the Community League and caters for eight to 18-year-olds.

Iqbal said: "Before we started out there were not many leagues around for the Asian community so we started up our own league; it gets people together through sport."

If you know someone who works hard behind the scenes for a particular sport or team nominate them now.