SEVEN people from East Lancashire have been entered into the latest edition of Who’s Who.

The dean of Blackburn, the very rev Peter Howell-Jones, the archdeacon of Blackburn, the venerable Mark Ireland, the chief executive of the Care Quality Commission Sir David Behan and the chief executive officer of 7digital Group, Simon Cole, have all been named in the 2018 edition.

The book, which contains more than 35,000 autobiographical entries, identifies noteworthy and influential people who have impacted British life.

Judge Sara Dodd, 53, from Burnley, based at the law courts in Preston, has also been entered into the book.

Judge Dodd joins Barrowford-born Michael Bradley, 54, director general of resources, defence equipment support at the Ministry of Defence, he was given an OBE for his services to the government.

Mr Bradley also played as a wicket keeper for Nelson.

People who make it into the book are invited to be listed.

Cllr Wajid Khan the North West's member of European Parliament, who also sits on Burnley Council, was entered into the prestigious list.

The Venerable Ireland, 57, has also been in his role since 2016 and holds a senior position in the Church of England, with responsibility of the area's church buildings and pastoral care for the clergy.

Venerable Ireland said he was delight to be entered into the list.

He said: "It was a real surprise to be included in 'Who’s Who'.

"Archdeacons usually avoid the limelight, our job is to keep the Church of England running smoothly behind the scenes.

"I have discovered that all Archdeacons get included, which I like to think is a recognition of all that local churches do week by week to serve and bless their communities in the name of Jesus Christ."

Sir David was knighted for his services to health and care in the 2017 New Year's Honours list.