AN empowering women's event took place last Saturday to raise awareness for women's struggles.

Hosted by the Accrington based group leader, Samina Mahmood, the night was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn, Cllr Mohammed Ayub and Noreen Hussain.

Mrs Mahmood held the event to highlight issues on mental health in the Asian society, as motivational speakers such as Yaqoob Hussain MBE and Mo Congress.

Fifteen of the women in the empowering women group also received certificates celebrating their empowerment as they overcame struggles.

Mrs Mahmood said: "I decided to do this event to raise awareness in the new year, and without the support it wouldn't have been possible.

"We're planning a lot for 2019, including ESOL classes for the women to help them find jobs and integrate more into society. It's easy for people to feel isolated due to this, and want them to be at ease when interacting."