A CAMPAIGNER for disabled rights has been named Rossendale's Woman of the Year 2010.

Jose Walker has organised garden competitions, a community cafe, cooking and flower arranging classes and Christmas parties to help build community spirit in Haslingden.

Earlier this year she was in a car accident and was left with lifelong mobility problems.

Jose, who has 13 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, had to move to Rawsthorne Avenue, Edenfield, because she could no longer tackle the steep steps at the front of her bungalow.

Following the move she got involved in the ‘Be With Us’ scheme and worked with Help Direct to campaign to reassess the rules which do not work in favour of those who are disabled or struggle with mobility.

Jose said: “Its so overwhelming to win such a big title. I still can’t believe I won. There were many other worthy winners and I hope to use the title to help raise much needed money for good causes within the Rossendale community.”

She won the title at Rossendale Hospice's annual awards ceremony and ladies lunch at Nino's Restaurant, in Rawtenstall.

The event saw more than 220 ladies join Jose and the two other finalists, Jacquie Dean-Magac and Mollie White for the fundraiser which raised £22,000.

Sam Morris, Rossendale Hospice's fundraising manager, said: “This award ceremony not only gives Rossendale the opportunity to recognise ladies who contribute to our community but also helps the Hospice to raise funds for people living in the community with a life limiting illness.

"I would like to give thanks to the Special Events Committee who over the last 10 years have helped raise more than £400,000.”