A PASSIONATE plea for nominations has been made by Community Pride’s principal sponsor.

Benenden is now in its sixth year of backing the awards and Lawrence Christensen, its marketing director, has fond memories of recognising those who work tirelessly for others.

He said: “These awards are the jewel in the crown of our community relations programme.

“For us it really brings to life everything we have stood for and always have stood for as an organisation.

“I’m on the judging panel and every year I’m amazed at all the incredible stories that come in.

“It never ceases to amaze me just what incredible community spirit exists in York.”

With awards focusing on mums and dads, fundraisers, sports coaches and schools, there really is a category for people in all walks of life who have achieved something spectacular.

And Mr Christensen believes people should not hesitate to nominate them.

He added: “What I love, and I know my colleagues love, is the diversity of the entries because it’s so incredible to see what people do for their fellow man and woman.

“If you’re in two minds, it’s so easy to nominate and not onerous at all.

“It takes five to ten minutes out of your day to recognise someone who deserves it.

“Not only does that person get nominated, it may inspire someone else to do it, which continues paying it forward.”

Nominations are accepted until July 17, then the winners will be picked by a judging panel for the ceremony in October, an event which Mr Christensen says often reduces the toughest to tears.

“What you go through on the evening is a total rollercoaster of emotions,” he added.

“You laugh until your sides hurt and cry at some of the most heartbreaking stories. That’s what makes it powerful.”

Community Pride is run jointly by The Press and City of York Council.

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

You can make a nomination online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride/ or complete the coupon and send it to Paula Homer, PA to the editor, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN.