DOES YOUR neighbour make a real difference in their community?

Blackburn with Darwen Council has teamed up with the Lancashire Telegraph to give well deserved recognition to residents who make a real difference to the lives of people on the streets and around the districts and villages of the borough.

The Your Call Good Neighbours Awards, which are also being supported by Capita and Blackburn Rovers, will build on the success of the 2013 awards, which put into the spotlight more than 70 unsung residents with deserved awards.

Examples of people who could be considered to be good neighbours include someone who keeps an eye open for the needs of others, for example looking in on an elderly person who lives alone, running errands or doing shopping for those who may have difficulty doing so, or taking the bins out on collection day for the street.

Councillor Kate Hollern, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, who set up the awards, said: “The Your Call campaign has been very successful.

“Last year I was overwhelmed by the success of the Good Neighbours Awards. Through it I met dozens of people who make Blackburn with Darwen a much better place and who encompass all that is best in a tight knit community.

“Friendliness and neighbourliness is something that’s always been incredibly strong in this borough.

“There are a lot of passionate people who want to make the borough the best in can be.”

One of last year’s top award winners was Beth Gregory, 74, who contributes in many ways to the community around the village of Guide.

Beth is instrumental among the Circle of Friends group and last year organised and even delivered a free bag of grit to every elderly household in the village last winter.

She said: “I would encourage people to get involved.

“Let’s shout about the positive, caring and selfless acts that make our communities a better place to live.

“It was a fantastic surprise to be nominated last year and I’m sure there are dozens of people who deserve recognition.”

Anyone of any age can be nominated but he or she must live in Blackburn with Darwen.

The judging panel’s decisions are final.

To nominate someone, fill out Blackburn with Darwen Council's online nomination form or download, complete and return a nomination form.
The closing date for nominations is Monday, April 7.