THE 2014 search for Blackburn with Darwen’s Good Neighbours has been backed by Prime Minister David Cameron and Labour leader Ed Miliband.

They are just two of the leading political figures delighted to back the second year of the campaign to reward residents who make a real difference to the lives of local people.

Mr Cameron said: “I’m delighted to back this year’s Good Neighbours Awards, which recognises and celebrates local unsung heroes for the work they do in helping their neighbours and communities.

“I congratulate Blackburn with Darwen Council and the Lancashire Telegraph on their campaign which highlights ordinary people and the extraordinary things they do for their fellow citizens, whether that’s picking up litter to keeping the area tidy or picking up shopping for neighbours.

“Everyone nominated should be very proud for the work they do in helping to build stronger and better communities.”

Mr Miliband said: “It’s great to see the Good Neighbours campaign repeated for a second year. It is a fantastic campaign that motivates people to contribute to their community.”

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “Good neighbours are a vital part of the fair society I want to see in Lancashire and across Britain. When you’ve got a good neighbour you cherish them, but they don’t always get the wider recognition they deserve.”

Darwen Tory MP Jake Berry said: “It’s fantastic that the unsung heroes of our community will be getting the recognition they deserve.”

Blackburn MP Jack Straw added: “This is a great campaign. All over East Lancashire there are hundreds of good neighbours, working selflessly, and without reward, for the benefit of residents less fortunate than them, and for their community as a whole.

“They provide the ‘glue’ which helps hold our society together.”