A BLACKPOOL community group supporting families of sexual abuse victims has been recognised by the Queen for its work.

Mothers of Sexually Abused Children (MOSAC) based in Blackpool's Talbot ward, will be one of only four Lancashire groups to receive the prestigious Queen's Golden Jubilee Award for its services to the community.

Winners of the award were announced on Monday to coincide with the Golden Jubilee of the Queen's coronation on June 2, 1953. The award -- first introduced by the Queen last year -- recognises the work of 'unsung heroes' in the world of community and voluntary work. Almost 300 voluntary groups were short-listed for the prize.

MOSAC will receive its award from the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth, at a ceremony later this summer.

Lord Shuttleworth said: "I am delighted that groups from across Lancashire have been recognised by this important and much prized award. Many hundreds of groups from throughout the country were nominated and it's a reflection of the high standard of these groups that they have been successful."

Nominations for the 2004 awards are now being sought. For an application form telephone the Lieutenancy Office at Lancashire's County Hall on (01772) 533364.