EFFORTS to help the community have helped a Darwen pub win the Thwaites Best Community Local Award.

The Punch Bowl Inn Roman Road, beat off competition from more than 350 Thwaites establishments and will go forward to a grand final in December, where the licencees will be nominated for Tenant of the Year.

As well as pulling pints and serving food licencees Sue Otley, 49, and Lorraine Lewis, 42, have held a number of community and charity events..

A breast cancer awareness group, a smoking clinic and a campaign to raise child safety awareness have all been launched by the pair.

Lorraine said: "It is lovely to receive recognition.

"We have carried out a lot of community work and this accolade is a fitting tribute."