SELFLESS heroes, talented sports stars, mums and dads who go the extra mile and those who have survived against all the odds are being invited to step into the spotlight.

This year’s Community Pride Awards will recognise all of the above and more as we celebrate the great and the good of York.

With categories for individuals and groups, the awards honour children and young people, parents, volunteers, fundraisers, public sector workers, teachers, schools, and community groups.

The search is now on for the people who go to remarkable lengths to make a difference to others, without thought for personal recognition or reward.

From today, people can start nominating their friends, family or neighbours they believe deserve recognition for their out-of-the-ordinary achievements.

Last year’s winners included Eunice Cooper, whose lifelong dedication to her Haxby community saw her pick up the Person of the Year award.

For decades, Eunice has raised large amounts of cash for charities and the events she organises have become important days in the town’s social calendar.

Those with a flair for sport or the dedication and talent to coach others have their own category, too.

Last year’s winner of the Sporting Hero award, Ian Hotchkies, devoted 40 years to refereeing and helping others rise to the top of their game.

Once again the principal sponsor for Community Pride will be York based healthcare organisation Benenden.

Other sponsors include Drax, City of York Council, York Racecourse, Nestle, Aviva, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Yorwaste and Pryers Solicitors LLP.

Perry Austin-Clarke, editor of The Press, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the work of selfless individuals in York.

"Many people devote their lives to helping others but rarely receive the recognition they deserve.

"The Community Pride Awards give them the honours they would never seek for themselves.

"As the nominations roll in I am looking forward to hearing stories of their selfless and dedicated work."

All nominees must live in, or contribute to life in, the City of York Council area. Three finalists from each category will be invited to the awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October, when the winners will be revealed.

Entries must be submitted by Friday, July 17 to Paula Homer, PA to The Editor, Newsquest York, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN.

You can also make a nomination online.

You must include a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 with each nomination, and may include a picture, which unfortunately we will be unable to return.