A TEACHER who has given over 30 years of service to Blackburn’s diverse communities has been honoured with a lifetime achievement award.

The awards organised by One Voice were held at Maida Restaurant and honoured community champions from across Blackburn with Darwen.

The 1V Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Liz Beaumont who has worked between two Blackburn schools, St Barnabas and St Paul’s Primary and St Luke’s Primary. Her role included both teaching and establishing projects with the Asian heritage families within those schools.

In an era of “multi-cultural” education, Liz reinforced the cosmopolitan nature of the town with a study visit to Pakistan.

This helped to shape some of the teaching models aimed at children of first and second generation immigrant families.

Liz said, “I regard myself as fortunate and privileged to have been here in Blackburn over a period of tremendous change, to have been involved in a community that has succeeded in overcoming many barriers.

“Being a part of their achievements is thrilling. To now receive an award for what has been so fascinating and fun, is a huge honour.”

The Youth of the Year Award went to Aqilah Mohamed. She said, “I’m so happy to have received this award. I genuinely am surprised.”

The Institute of the Year was won by Abu Hanifah Foundation Football Club and Dr Pervez Muzaffar got the nod for Man of the Year.

The Woman of the Year award went to Zahida Ismail for her work with organisation Children of Jannah. She said, “Thank you to everyone. This award will make a big difference to other bereaved parents in the community.”

The Dinner also included a keynote speech and presentation from Dominic Harrison, Director of Public Health in Blackburn and Darwen where he spoke about how health concerns internationally affected borough. Women’s refuge Humraaz and WEGs (West End Girls) delivered a presentation on the subject of Forced Marriage.