TWO sisters from Blackburn have been rewarded at the House of Lords for services to the community.

Christine Connell and Doreen Mitchell have devoted their time to promoting healthy and happy living among community members by setting up the Ivy Street Community Centre and have been handed a British Citizen Award for their work.

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Christine said the award was completely unexpected and is pleased they have been able to bring people together at the centre in Ivy Close.

She said: “We never could have imagined that we would be receiving a British Citizen Award.

“In an area of such diversity, we have people of many different backgrounds and beliefs and we wanted to do something to embrace this and fight the growing tensions.

“The community centre has brought our community together and has allowed everyone to appreciate the diversity.”

Launched in January 2015, the BCA recognises extraordinary achievements by everyday people who have made a positive difference to the lives of others.

The pair, who have fought for change in health systems, received a medal from David Cowans, CEO of Places for People, at the Palace of Westminster yesterday (Thurs).

The sisters set up the centre, located on Ivy Street, over 30 years ago at a time when crime and disorder were high in the area.

The centre in the Infirmary area of the town, which is open seven days a week, was set up to offer community members a safe place where they could enjoy a variety of different classes and activities such as martial arts and dance classes.

Doreen said: “A community centre should act as the heart of a community and that was very much our aim for the Ivy Street Centre.

“We have always believed that a healthy body leads to a healthy and happy mind which is why we wanted to provide locals with a place where they could take part in healthy activities.

“It’s an honour to be recognised with such an important award.”

The centre has also staged a number of events promoting cultural diversity.