A ‘RISHTONER at heart’ has had her work for the community recognised.

Christine Hammerton, 69, was given the Rishton Award 2013 and a cheque for £50 for her voluntary work in town at the Rishton Festival – where she is chair of the committee.

Mrs Hammerton also volunteers at the library and at the parish church.

Coun Ken Moss said: “There really would not be a festival if it wasn’t for her drive. She does an awful lot for Rishton and always has.

“She was the driving force behind the youth club which got the money for the Holt Street multi-use games area.

“The award is given to somebody who has gone over and above for the town and she has done it for so long.”

Mrs Hammerton moved to Rishton from Blackburn when she was a young girl.

She said: “I’m a Rishtoner at heart, definitely. I have to be, my husband is from here.”