In a recent announcement that has brought pride and recognition to Blackburn, several prominent individuals from the local community have been acknowledged in the King’s Honours List. Among those celebrated are Dr. Fazal Dad, the principal and chief executive of Blackburn College; former councillor and Member of Parliament for Blackburn, Kate Hollern; and Christine Cort, the managing director of the Manchester International Festival, who has roots in Blackburn. This esteemed recognition not only highlights their individual achievements but also reflects positively on the town of Blackburn itself.
Dr. Fazal Dad was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his outstanding contributions to further education. Since his appointment as principal of Blackburn College in January 2019, Dr. Dad has been instrumental in implementing significant changes and improvements. Cllr Phil Riley, the leader of the council, praised Dr. Dad’s transformative leadership, noting that he has helped the college achieve remarkable progress. Under his stewardship, Blackburn College made strides from an Ofsted rating of ‘requires improvement’ to a commendable rating of ‘good’ in just three years. This turnaround speaks volumes about Dr. Dad’s commitment to elevating educational standards and enhancing the learning environment for students.
Cllr Riley elaborated on Dr. Dad’s initiatives, pointing out that he was pivotal in launching one of the few hybrid and electric automotive training facilities in the country, demonstrating a forward-thinking vision for the college’s curriculum. This facility not only positions Blackburn College as a frontrunner in automotive education but also aligns with the national imperative for sustainable technology and green careers. Furthermore, the college has formed strategic links with the National Cyber Security Centre through its cyber security training centre. This collaboration has introduced invaluable opportunities, equipping young people in Blackburn with the necessary skills required for modern careers in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The honour bestowed upon Kate Hollern, a respected political figure in Blackburn, speaks volumes about her dedication to public service and the community. Throughout her lengthy career, she has played a significant role in local governance, serving on the Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for over two decades and holding parliamentary office as the MP for Blackburn for nine years. Her commitment to the constituents she served is unmistakable. Cllr Riley expressed joy over Hollern receiving a CBE for her parliamentary and political services. “Kate is an adopted Blackburnian after moving here from Scotland when she was young,” he noted fondly, emphasizing her deep-rooted connection to the area and the impact she has had on its residents.
Hollern’s tenure as the Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council lasted from 2004 to 2007 and again from 2010 to 2015, during which time she led the council to be recognized as the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Council of the Year, a prestigious accolade that highlights excellence in local governance. Cllr Riley remarked on Hollern’s unwavering dedication to her roles, stating that throughout her various positions, she always aimed to do her best in service of the residents of Blackburn.
The honours come at a poignant time for Hollern, as her recent loss in the 2024 General Election to independent candidate Adnan Hussain surprised many, given that Blackburn was historically considered a safe seat for the Labour Party. Nevertheless, her enduring legacy of public service and advocacy for the community remains intact, and this recognition further solidifies her influential role within the town.
Christine Cort, who has risen to prominence as the managing director of the Manchester International Festival, was also acknowledged in this year’s honours list, receiving an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her efforts in promoting arts and culture. Cllr Riley spoke highly of Cort’s commitment to arts and culture as catalysts for growth, adding that she has not forgotten her roots in Blackburn. Her dedication to her hometown is evident in her support for initiatives like Blackburn’s National Festival of Making and other local cultural activities, which celebrate creativity and community engagement.
Cort’s involvement in initiatives that bring cultural vibrancy to Blackburn underscores her role as a driving force in the region’s arts scene. Notably, she played a significant role in bringing the Escapades pop-up tavern to the town center, in collaboration with her close friend, the celebrated chef Paul Heathcote. Cllr Riley expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, noting that Escapades became a popular festive destination for many looking to enjoy a night out in Blackburn during the Christmas season. This project not only showcased local talent but also provided a creative space for residents and visitors to gather, reinforcing Blackburn’s cultural identity.
These recognitions reflect not just personal achievements but also the collective spirit of Blackburn’s community, celebrating individuals who have worked tirelessly to uplift and improve the town in various capacities. Overall, the King’s honours list for this year has acknowledged 12 deserving individuals from East Lancashire, a clear indication of the region’s commitment to excellence across diverse fields, including education, politics, and the arts.
As the community rejoices in the achievements of these inspiring figures, it serves as a reminder of the power of dedication, service, and cultural engagement to shape and define a place. Dr. Fazal Dad, Kate Hollern, and Christine Cort have not only excelled in their respective fields but have fundamentally contributed to making Blackburn a vibrant and thriving community.
Looking ahead, the impact of their accomplishments will likely resonate within the heart of Blackburn for years to come. The celebrations for these honourees reflect a community that values recognition of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to uplift others. Their collective stories inspire future generations to pursue their passions and serve their communities, highlighting the essential role that individuals play in shaping local culture and governance.
It is fitting that those who have significantly contributed to Blackburn’s progress receive such esteemed accolades. Their journeys remind us that while individual success is commendable, the real achievement lies in the positive impact one can have on the community at large. As Blackburn continues to develop and flourish, the legacies of these honourees will serve as guiding lights for all who strive to contribute meaningfully to society.
As the announcement reverberates through the region, Cllr Phil Riley’s joyful reflections serve as a rallying cry for residents to not only celebrate these achievements but also to foster a spirit of community involvement, encouraging more individuals to become change-makers and champions of progress within Blackburn.