Launched this week, the North Herts District Chairman’s Volunteer Achievement Awards 2019 celebrate the achievements of outstanding, praiseworthy individuals who volunteer their time to make a real difference in their communities.

The awards – backed by the Comet – will be presented at the Chairman’s Civic Reception at Wymondley Priory Barns in February 2019. Members of the public are urged to act fast as the deadline to put forward nominees is Friday, December 21.

There are five categories for nominations: Caring Award – for someone’s acts of kindness, Dedication Award – for long service in voluntary or community work, Green Award – for helping to keep North Herts clean, safe and green, Sporting Achievement Award – to recognise a major contribution to sporting life and the Young Star Award – for a young person aged 25 or under who has made a difference to their local community.

The district council’s chairman, Councillor John Bishop, said: “These awards are a great way to recognise the individuals who voluntarily help to support their communities.

“Last year we celebrated the work of some of the most selfless people in our district, who work tirelessly to improve the lives of the people around them and the places they live.

“If you know somebody who deserves a public ‘thank you’, then nominate them for this year’s awards and let them know how much you appreciate the work they do.”

Comet editor Nick Gill added: “This time last year we backed the awards for the first time and, much like our own Comet Community Awards, saw an abundance of worthy entries when it came to the judging. I hope it’ll be the same story so volunteers get the recognition they deserve.”

Nominated volunteers must volunteer in and live or work in the North Hertfordshire district.

For more information on the categories and to make a nomination online, go to www.north-herts.gov.uk/home/community/chairmans-volunteer-achievement-awards.