NOMINATIONS for this year’s Good Neighbours Awards in Blackburn with Darwen have reached double figures.

With more than 10 applications received, hopes are growing this year’s total will beat last year’s inaugural 70.

Among the most recent nominations are two community-minded pensioners.

One approached the council for a high-visibility jacket and a litter picking stick so she could collect debris every day from a piece of land on the corner of Knowle Lane and Moor Lane in Darwen.

The nomination describes her as ‘a real character, taking great pride in her neighbourhood’.

The second is a ‘neighbour from heaven’.

The nomination says: “I moved into the house next door to her on my own in July 2012.

“In October 2012, I fell and broke my shoulder and arm so I couldn't look after myself as I was in a lot of pain.

“She barely knew me but took me under her wing and made sure that I was fed by making me food, bringing it over to my house and keeping me company as I have no family here.

“She is an angel and deserves to be rewarded for being so selfless when I had nobody else to help me. I don't know how I would've coped without her support. She is a wonderful neighbour and I'm lucky to live next door to her.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Kate Hollern said: “Nominations are coming in. Some of their stories are truly heart-warming and make me proud to belong to such a place as Blackburn with Darwen.

“The important thing about these awards is that they recognise people who give their time to the community and expect nothing in return. They are the people who keep the community together and make the place a better place to live.”

The awards are sponsored by a wide range of organisations including Blackburn with Darwen Council, the Lancashire Telegraph, Capita, Blackburn Rovers, and Blackburn with Darwen Clinical Commissioning Group.

Seven great prizes are on offer including a match day meal for two at Ewood Park, a meal at Mellor’s Stanley House Hotel, a weekend break in Blackpool, a meal at The Pack in Belthorn, and The Mall Blackburn shopping vouchers.

The deadline for entries is Monday, April 7.