Members of the community organised a special leaving event for a Council employee as he left for a new post.

Blackburn with Darwen Council, Assistant Director of Lifelong Learning, David McNulty was instrumental in formulating a range of new courses in the area, some of which achived national recognition.

From adult learning courses at women's centre's to Hajj Information seminars David helped implement a range of community focused courses.

He was responsible for managing Lifelong Learning, Neighbourhood Learning, Youth Service, Children's Fund and the Early Years teams.

Five years ago he joined Blackburn with Darwen. He transformed the Borough's Adult Education Team and in 1998 inherited an adult education programme with 2,500 learners. This year over 13, 000 learners have benefited from the Borough's Lifelong Learning projects.

Earlier this year David's Lifelong Learning Team were awarded the highest accolade in local government, the local government association's Top team in the country award identifying it as the best in the United Kingdom.

The event saw a whole host of students, councillors and colleagues speak of David's committment and understanding of the needs of the community.

Ruby Hussain, headmaster of Beardwood High School said, "We will miss his charitable smile and his sincerity. He will be a great loss to Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council."

The event was organised by Beardwood High School in partnership with Lifelong Learning.

Councillor Muhammad Khan said, "He has really made a real difference to the lives of taxi drivers in Blackburn with Darwen".

Peter Morgan: Director of Education and Lifelong Learning added, "David is very passionate and really believes in making a difference to the lives of the residents of the Borough."