WHEN Maud Hegarty was nominated for The Lancashire Woman of the Year Award it was a proud moment for the remarkable 86-year-old.

But the fickle hand of fate dealt a blow when she fell last week, breaking her hip and forcing her to miss the awards. Determined not to let the moment pass, the twin sisters who nominated her, Liz Clayton and Diana Pearson, surprised her with a special ward-side picnic they prepared and took in to Blackburn Infirmary.

The sisters nominated Maud, who they describe simply as "a truly remarkable woman", for the exceptionally energetic lifestyle she pursues despite obstacles.

When nominating Maud, the twins had to write a citation -- a potted history of her life.

Married for 62 years to Bill, Maud is well-remembered as the proprietor of the Kate Francis gown shop on Bolton Road in Blackburn which sold opulent clothes designed by herself until 1994.

She was approached by Blackburn College and designed costumes for productions which earned her the Principal's Award for outstanding services.

She eventually returned to college as a student during her retirement.