THE search is one for Blackburn with Darwen's Covid heroes.

Nominations are being sought for a special award,

Blackburn with Darwen Council's leader Cllr Mohammed Khan and community organisation One Voice Blackburn are looking for a shining example of kindness and compassion throughout the Covid-19 pandemic through their local leadership .

The winner of 'The Leader's Award' will also demonstrate a strong ethos of integration and cohesion.

This is the sixth year of the award with previous winners coming from all sections of the community.

Cllr Khan said: “It’s been a 16 months like no other and an experience I expect many people would like to forget.

"In Blackburn with Darwen we are blessed with many organisations and individuals who, in the very early days of the pandemic, looked for opportunities to help people who were struggling and sprang into action.

“These are the people whose efforts deserve to be celebrated and remembered.

"Their hard work and determination to make the lockdowns easier for a wide range of people – from the elderly and isolated, to those affected by loss of earnings.

"They ignored difference and supported everyone.

"This makes me incredibly proud and I’m looking forward to receiving nominations from across all our communities.”

Sara Hussain won the award 18 months ago, in recognition of the speech she wrote when comforting a friend who was caught up in the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.

The winner will be announced at the One Voice Annual Dinner and Awards in October 2021.