A BOROUGH'S 'unsung heroes' have been celebrated at its first-ever Mayor’s Commendation Awards evening.

More than 40 people were invited to Nelson Town Hall last week to be personally thanked for making a difference by Pendle's First Citizen.

All nominees received a certificate and a specially commissioned limited edition pin badge

Cllr Ken Hartley, Mayor of Pendle, said: “Every day people and organisations are doing some wonderful work and make an extraordinary difference in Pendle. This very often goes unrecognised.

"I launched the Mayor’s Commendation Awards so that we can change this and say a big thank you to those who go the extra mile and make an outstanding contribution to the quality of life in Pendle.

“These talented people transform Pendle into a vibrant and dynamic world.”

Handing out the awards Cllr Hartley said: “You have surprised us, tweaked our emotions, inspired and amazed us and in your own unique way."

Steve Wilcock, Chair of Trawden Forest Community Centre, Library and Shop, said: “It’s really nice that organisations like ours have been recognised.”

Pat Lomax, from Pendle Hippodrome, added: “It was brilliant - we heard about all the good things that are going on in Pendle.”

The second Mayor’s Commendation Awards is taking place on Thursday February 20 next year with the deadline for nominations on Thursday 16 January 16.