THREE York teachers are the most recent people to be nominated for Community Pride awards.

The have all been nominated for the Teacher of the Year award by grateful pupils and families, who say their dedication, imagination and selflessness makes them stand out from the crowd.

Sally Richardson, of Woodthorpe, teaches at Pocklington's Woldgate College. She is soon retiring after 30 years and has already received an accolade from Princess Margaret.

Her daughter Sarah, who nominated her, said: "Everyone who has had the privilege of having my mum as a teacher is so lucky, and when we walk around in town, kids are always coming up to her. She is understanding, patient and most of all loves being a teacher and will be so sad to leave - but I'm looking forward to having my mum back!"

Primary school teacher Jane Cowie, who teaches Year 5 at Clifton with Rawcliffe School, has also been nominated by mum Rachel Wright whose daughter Isobel has come on in leaps and bounds in Mrs Cowie's class.

Rachel said: "One day Isobel told me 'Mrs Cowie has made be enjoy school', and it nearly brought tears to my eyes, because I know how much she disliked school."

Isobel has always struggled with her confidence at school, Rachel said, never believing she was an intelligent as her family knew her to be. It took Mrs Cowie's encouragement and bubbly personality to help Isobel realise her potential.

"All the teachers are amazing, but Mrs Cowie has really stood out for me and I know she has helped other children as well," Rachel added.

Sociology teacher, Geoff Hatch, of the Joseph Rowntree School, was nominated by another satisfied parent who says he has helped develop his son's confidence and ability.

He has been described as "truly inspiring" providing, fun, interesting but at the same time informative lessons to pupils.

His nomination says Mr Hatch does everything he can to encourage pupils, sending postcards home for excellent work and taking an interest in every student. Although he marks thoroughly, comments are rarely negative, as he finds the positives in all work.

Nominations are still open for this year's award and judges are looking for someone who, through their enthusiasm and commitment, truly inspires their pupils.

It is one of of 13 categories in theCommunity Pride awards, which are run by The Press and City of York Council and sponsored by Benenden Health

To make a nomination, or for more information, go to, yorkpress.co.uk/pride.