SINCE the Community Pride awards launched in March, nominations have flooded in to the Press offices with tales of dedicated and inspirational people giving their time and effort to make the city a better place to be.

Stories have included brave youngsters facing up to lives difficulties, selfless volunteers, inspirational teachers and groups and businesses providing top quality services to people in York.

But for some categories the judges still want to hear your stories of inspirational young people, the stars of the health service, and primary school projects working to improve the environment around them.

The judges want to see nominations for the categories of Spirit of Youth, Health Service Hero, and Primary School Project.

Press Editor Steve Hughes said: "The Community Pride awards hold a special place in the hearts of the people of York as an opportunity to thank all those unsung heroes who do so much to help others and make our city the great place that it is.

"But we rely on the people of York to make sure everyone who deserves our celebration gets the praise they deserve, but would never ask for. If you know someone who should have a moment in the spotlight, or have seen a project make a difference to the environment, please make a nomination."

The Spirit of Youth category recognises people ages 13-18 who make an outstanding contribution to the community, their peers and the city in general.

In the past, it has recognised a group of outstanding role models who, ages just 16, launched their own campaign to fight negative body images among young women; as well as medal winning sports stars and charitable teens who have raised hundreds for good causes.

The Health Service Hero award honours the army of unsung heroes who quietly go about their duties in the health service in York making a huge difference to the lives of people who are sick or suffering.

The judges are looking for someone whose dedication to their duties is second to none, and have already seen heart warming nominations about community pharmacist Esther Astilleros-Smits and York Hospital's play team.

And the primary school project of the year recognises work schools do to improve their surroundings, or the environment in general.

It can be an ongoing project, and last year's shortlist included a string of eco-minded schemes including litter picks and recycling drives at Tang Hall Primary school; a wildlife garden at Bishopthorpe Infants School, and Carr Junior School's successful fight to save its swimming pool for the community.

For more information or to make a nomination to the Community Pride awards, which are sponsored by Benenden Health, go to thepress.co.uk/pride.