This year’s Youth CEO, Maddie Marsden, 14, is a finalist in the BBC Make a Difference Awards 2023 in The Volunteer Award: awarded to an individual who makes a real difference to their community by giving up their time voluntarily to help out a good or charitable cause.

Laurance Hancock, CEO, said “Maddie is so deserving of this award, but what’s really special is that she is the only finalist to make it through from Blackpool. She is representing The Boathouse Youth, young people and our wonderful town – a job she does so well!”

“Maddie is known and loved by almost all of the organisation’s major stakeholders, most importantly her peers. She is not afraid to stand-up for what she believes in right and speak truth to power to instigate change!”

Local heroes who have been making a difference in their communities have been shortlisted as finalists in a community award scheme run by BBC Radio Lancashire.

Nominations by the public took place earlier this year, and winners will be announced at a ceremony at Chorley Town Hall in September.

BBC Radio Lancashire created the Make a Difference Awards to recognise remarkable people across the country; marking their achievements and contributions to their communities.

The eight categories range from great neighbours and inspirational fundraisers, to thoughtful volunteers and outstanding community groups.

BBC Radio Lancashire’s Breakfast Presenter, Graham Liver, said: “I’m so proud that we can recognise brilliant Lancastrians who really care about where they live.

“Our finalists don’t do it for the recognition but I’m delighted that we can say thank you to these unsung heroes”.

Chris Burns, the BBC’s Controller of Local Audio Commissioning said: “A huge thank you to everyone who nominated someone, we have some amazing stories and are looking forward to celebrating our local heroes in September.”

To find out more about the awards visit: bbc.co.uk/makeadifference.