THE MOTHER of Sophie Lancaster has been named Rossendale Woman of the Year 2008.

Sylvia Lancaster received the prestigious accolade at the annual event, organised by Rossendale Hospice, after she was nominated by people in the Valley.

She was commended for presenting herself in an ‘admirable’ way in the aftermath of her 20-year-old daughter’s murder in August 2007.

On nomination sheets, members of the public also praised her ability to ‘see beyond’ her personal tragedy and launch the SOPHIE campaign.

Sophie, who went to school in Rising Bridge, was murdered in Stubbylee Park, Bacup, after she was targeted because of her goth-style clothing and image.

Teenagers Brendan Harris, and Ryan Herbert were jailed for life in April for murdering the former Haslingden High School student.

Speaking after the ceremony, Mrs Lancaster said receiving the award was ‘overwhelming'.

She said: “I went fully not expecting to win and certainly had no speech prepared.

“I couldn’t mention Sophie or the campaign because I would have cried and those moments are private.

"I can only say thank you once again for the support which has been amazing.

"It justifies the work we have been doing since Sophie’s needless death.

“And most importantly, I accepted knowing that it keeps her spirit alive and enables me to continue to Make A Noise and create a lasting legacy for her.

The other finalists included doctor’s secretary Janet Aston and charity worker Carolyn Shepherd.

A grand total of £16,000 was raised for the hospice through the auctioning of prizes, at Fence Gate, Burnley, on Friday, which included a signed photograph of X-Factor finalist Diana Vickers and tickets to see Lionel Richie at the Manchester Arena.