A Blackburn councillor has been congratulated for his work in helping to support a cancer charity

Cllr Salim Sidat is the winner of 2024 Douglas Macmillan Volunteer of the Year Award.

The winner is selected by a panel of judges from Macmillan Cancer Support from the pool of all shortlisted nominees, numbering 497, and presented to ‘someone who deserves recognition’.

The Audley and Queen's Park councillor has been helping to host a number of events alongside other volunteers to create more awareness of the work of the charity.

The judges said: "Salim is the epitome of ambition.

"His drive, determination, and ambition to raise awareness and break down barriers within his community are truly inspiring.

“Salim is clearly a person of huge altruism and influence, and he has used his many skills to promote the work of Macmillan and raise awareness of cancer in a practical way for the community."

Lancashire Telegraph:

The judges added: “He has overcome many hurdles along the way and has had a 'can do' approach for all the tasks that he has taken on.

"He is to be congratulated on the amazing work that he has done, his many achievements, and his heart of gold.

“Salim has been kind and brave enough to share his resources (access to community, his network, a trusted community location) with Macmillan so that we can learn more about the complex needs of Muslim people living with/affected by cancer. 

"He makes Macmillan more innovative and suitable for supporting communities in Blackburn and East Lancs and has been a truly empowering leader.

"Salim has shown clear ambition in being an ambassador for his community, Macmillan and people affected by cancer.”