THE Sentinel has once again teamed up with Britannia, part of The Co-operative Group, to recognise Our Heroes.

The campaign, now in its sixth year, aims to highlight the efforts of people of all ages and from all walks of life.

Nominations are needed for community groups, good neighbours, stars of local schools, charity champions and volunteers, heroes of the NHS and adult carers.

Neville Richardson, chief executive of The Co-operative Financial Services, said: “In previous years we have all been moved by truly amazing stories of extraordinary achievement, selfless courage and determination and, this year’s nominations are no exception.

"Once again, deserved recognition is being given to those ordinary people who make extraordinary contributions to people’s lives and help to keep our communities thriving.”

A celebrity gala dinner to honour the winners will take place in September. The closing date for entries is July 29.

​BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY

Whether it’s a beat bobby clocking up an extraordinary arrest record, an off-duty firefighter risking his life to save a child, a paramedic helping save a patient’s life or a supercool 999 call operator, The Sentinel wants to hear about outstanding emergency services workers who go above and beyond the call of duty.

The category is also open to members of the Armed Forces.

Contact Richard Ault on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR

Made things happen in your neighbourhood? We want to hear from groups which have worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for people in their community.

Whether you’ve raised money for a new play area, organised a demonstration, or simply campaigned for safer roads – get in touch.

Contact Ciara Hill on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

BRIGHT YOUNG THING (under-18s)

Do you know a Bright Young Thing who has shown outstanding endeavour, initiative, innovation or ability beyond their years?

We are looking for nominations of people under the age of 18 who lead good lives; work hard at school and college; and who want to succeed and be happy in the future.

They may put their loved ones and others first; be ambitious and have already taken the first steps towards achieving their dreams; or raise money for good causes and worthwhile projects in their own communities.

Contact James Truswell on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

 

GOOD NEIGHBOUR

The Good Neighbour category celebrates the unsung heroes who have put themselves out to improve the lives of those around them.

Whether you know someone who has put in years of service to their community, or just a fellow resident who has helped out in a crisis, they could be eligible for recognition.

Contact Adam Blakeman on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

 

SCHOOL STAR OF THE YEAR

Has a teacher at your child’s school inspired them to produce good work or results?

Do they spend time out of school hours on activities that make a difference to the lives of pupils?

Teachers who fit the bill can be nominated for School Star of the Year.

This category is also open to anyone who works in a school environment and needs to be recognised for their outstanding contribution to improving school life.

Contact Kathie McInnes on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

CHARITY CHAMPION OR VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

This category will recognise the people who carry out a multitude of good work in our communities.

It can be a person who dedicates countless hours to raising money for charity, or whose volunteering work makes a difference to the lives of others.

Contact Phil Corrigan on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

HERO OF THE NHS

This category is open to people who work within the NHS who go beyond the call of duty to help patients in hospitals across the region.

To make a nomination, contact Dave Blackhurst on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

 

CHILD OF COURAGE

This category will recognise any youngster who has overcome adversity or shown outstanding bravery and maturity beyond their years.

They may have battled a life-threatening illness or undergone major surgery and come through fighting.

We are also seeking young carers who, as well as keeping up with their studies, shoulder the burden of caring for a parent, grandparent or sibling.

To nominate a Child of Courage, contact Hayley Harp on 01782 602525 or use the form below.

ADULT CARER OF THE YEAR

This can be any adult, paid or unpaid, who acts as a carer.

It might be a parent looking after a child with a disability, or a daughter or son looking after an older parent who can no longer do everything for themselves.

It could be a foster mum and dad who have always had time to welcome children into their home, or a brother or sister who look after their sibling.

It could also be an adult who has chosen to make caring their career, and work with the elderly or with children with special needs.

To nominate an Adult Carer contact Nicola Irwin on 01782 602525 or use the form below.