Blackburn with Darwen will celebrate International Women’s Day 2025 with a special evening event at Ewood Park tonight, honouring the incredible women who make a difference in the borough.

The event, which promises to be an inspiring evening of celebration, entertainment and reflection, will be the grand finale of a campaign to recognise outstanding local women.

It also marks 80 years since Barbara Castle was first elected as Blackburn’s MP.

On the night, the prestigious Barbara Castle ‘Woman of the Year Award’ will be presented to one exceptional individual who embodies her pioneering spirit.

The overall winner will be chosen from the women nominated in the ‘Roll of Honour’, which includes Rovers’ Head of Operations Lynsey Talbot, Blackburn Rovers Community Trust’s Head of Health & Wellbeing Fahima Iqbal, Blackburn Rovers Community Trust Trustee Maureen Bateson and Rovers’ Her Game Too ambassador Megan Longworth.

As sponsors of the event, Blackburn Rovers Community Trust is proud to be part of this celebration of local women.

Gary Robinson, CEO of the Community Trust, said: “Women play an essential role in every part of our community, including in sport, leadership and business.

“We are delighted to be hosting this event at Ewood Park and look forward to welcoming everyone for an unforgettable evening.

“I feel really proud that this Award has uncovered so many women on our own doorstep doing amazing community service. It’s only right that they are proudly recognised in this way.”

Wondering who made it to the final? Check out all the nominees in the video below:

Rovers to host special event celebrating inspirational women