NOMINATIONS are now being sought for an awards scheme that honours the unsung heroes of the community.

The Hambleton Community Awards were launched to recognise and celebrate the exceptional contribution to the district made by countless residents - young and old.

The district council scheme – which will culminate in a prize giving ceremony next March – covers everything from Community Group of the Year to Citizen of the Year.

“We want to reward the positive - and often unnoticed - voluntary work undertaken by our residents who all work hard to ensure their communities are a nice place to live,” said Cllr Bridget Fortune, portfolio holder for leisure services.

“These individuals and groups work tirelessly for no pay, to provide excellent services, projects and experiences for their communities. The awards will allow us to give them the praise they so richly deserve.”

She added: “Please don’t be afraid to nominate a project, organisation or individual who you think is worthy of recognition.”

Any individual, group or organisation - public, private or voluntary - can make a nomination. Forms are available at hambleton.gov.uk/communityawards , any council leisure centre or from the council offices in Northallerton, Easingwold or Stokesley.

The closing date for nominations is January 18.