THE driving force behind a ground-breaking scheme has been named Woman in the Community 1996 by Accrington Soroptimists.
Joan Dawson co-ordinates the Contact Centre at Hyndburn Christian Stable, which provides a neutral and safe location for separated parents to meet their children.
The Citizen adopted the centre for our Christmas Campaign last year and offers of furniture, toys and cash from readers gave it a flying start.
Soroptimist Joan, a retired primary school teacher, said: "I am very proud of the centre but have to admit it has been time consuming and hard work.
She added: "I was honoured to receive the award but it was a bit of a surprise. The success of the centre is reward enough."
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