Community champions and volunteers across Blackburn and Darwen were honoured at the 2026 Community Volunteer Awards.
The annual awards ceremony brought together volunteers, community groups, families and supporters to recognise the difference people make through kindness, dedication and commitment to helping others.
This year the awards were brought back to the King Georges Hall, following its restoration and were hosted by the BBC’s Graham Liver.
The Community Volunteer Awards are jointly organised and hosted by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Community CVS, with the support of local businesses and community organisations.
Margaret Jepson of the Samaritans was presented with the Lifetime Award as Joyce Hope from St Luke’s Church was named Volunteer of the Year.
East Lancashire Hospice CaST picked up the Group of the Year award. The Individual Peace Award went Naseem Khan of UCTV and the Individual People Award was won by Graham Neild from Blackburn District Scouts.
The CVS Special Award for Outstanding Service went to Blackburn United’s Iqbal Bhai for his contribution to grassroots sport for five decades.
Chief Executive of Community CVS, Garth Hodgkinson said: “What a fantastic evening celebrating the incredible community spirit we have here in Blackburn with Darwen. I am always amazed by the dedication, generosity and voluntary work taking place across the borough.
“Congratulations to all the winners, runners up and nominees.
“Thank you to everyone who gives their time to support others and make a difference in our communities. If you have been thinking about getting involved in volunteering but haven’t quite taken the plunge, why not give it a go? Every little bit helps and together we can achieve so much more.
“Many thanks to all our sponsors who support the awards and everyone who helps. Without your support we would be unable to put on this remarkable event.”
Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Cllr Phil Riley, said: “Blackburn with Darwen has always been a borough with a strong community spirit and our volunteers are at the heart of that. Every day, people give their time, often without expecting anything in return, to support their neighbours, help those in need and make a positive difference to their communities.
“The stories behind this year’s nominations are a wonderful reminder of the kindness and generosity that exists across the borough. I would like to congratulate all the winners and nominees and offer my sincere thanks to everyone who volunteers. Your contributions, however big or small, help make Blackburn with Darwen a special place
Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Denise Park added: “It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate the incredible contributions volunteers make across Blackburn with Darwen.
“Our volunteers play an important role in creating connected, supportive and thriving communities. Their efforts can sometimes happen quietly, but the impact they have on individuals, families and the community is immeasurable.
“Thank you to everyone who gives their time and energy to help others, you should be incredible proud of the difference you make.”
People Award
- Individual: Graham Neild (Blackburn District Scouts)
- Group: Darwen Ducks
Prosperity Award
- Individual: Lisa Brabrook (No.1 Coffee Shop)
- Group: No. 1 Coffee Shop
Planet Award
- Individual: Maryam Abdulrashid (BwD Recycle Campaign)
- Group: East Lancashire Hospice Darwen Shop
Peace Award
- Individual: Naseem Khan (UCTV)
- Group: Blackburn Magistrate Witness Service
Place Award
- Individual: Lisa Johnson (St James Community Centre)
- Group: Brama Group
Participation Award
- Individual: Lawrence Ashworth (Blackburn District Scouts)
- Group: Blackburn District Scouts
CVS Special Award for Outstanding Service
- Winner: Iqbal Bhai (Blackburn United FC)
Young Person Award
- Winner: Adam Esat (Blackburn Youth Zone)
Lifetime Award
- Winner: Margaret Jepson (Samaritans)
Volunteer of the Year
- Winner: Joyce Hope (St Luke’s Church)
Group of the Year
- Winner: East Lancashire Hospice CaST
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