Clockwise from top left: Councillors Kevin Connor, David Smith, Jim Shorrock, Derek Hardman, Julie Slater and Jacqueline Slater
Published Monday 27 July 2026 at 13:42
Nine former councillors were recognised for their dedication and commitment to Blackburn with Darwen at last week’s Council Forum meeting, where they were presented with long service awards.
Together, the former councillors have given an impressive 209 years of service to the Council, with individual service ranging from 19 years to an outstanding 38 years.
The awards celebrate the significant contribution each councillor has made in serving residents, supporting communities and helping to shape the borough over many years.
Councillors play an important role in representing their communities and supporting local residents. They are elected representatives, chosen by local people to serve their wards, and are not council employees.
Their collective experience and commitment reflect a remarkable dedication to public service, and we congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.
- Kevin Connor – 19 years
- Derek James Hardman – 25 years
- Parwaiz Akhtar – 20 years
- Jacqueline Slater – 22 years
- Jim Shorrock – 22 years
- Suleman Khonat – 22 years
- David Smith – 38 years
- Julie Slater – 19 years
- Jim Smith – 22 years