A SUDDEN rush of entries for this year’s ‘Good Neighbours’ awards in Blackburn with Darwen has seen the total of nominations double to more than 20.

Last night former Rovers and Scotland striker Kevin Gallacher backed the scheme.

The scope and variety of the unsung heroes being put forward in recent days has boosted hopes this year’s total will beat last year’s inaugural 70.

Ewood Park star Mr Gallacher said: “Since I came to Blackburn, community and good neighbourliness have been hallmarks of the town.

“Last year’s awards show that is still the case and I hope this year will see even more nominations.

“We need to do all we can to encourage the sense of community that makes Blackburn such a great place to live and work.”

This year’s nominations include a man who works across the Roe Lee ward to make improvements.

He regularly litter picks, leads ‘Your Call’ clean ups and supports people to keep the area tidy as well as helping organise the fundays and events in the park.

Another nominee is a 78-year-old who takes in mail, signs for parcels, takes meter readings and puts bins away for his neighbours while they are out at work.

He also fixes fencing, sharpens tools and climbs dizzy heights to trim hedges.

A talented artist, he does portraits of children, relatives and pets.

The awards are sponsored by 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.

The deadline for entries is Monday, April 7, 2014.