A PASSIONATE appeal for nominations has been issued by the principle sponsor of our York Community Pride Awards.

York-based health care provider Benenden has now been supporting the awards for eight years and head of communications Paul Keenan urged people to nominate their unsung heroes.

The awards, held by The Press in partnership with City of York Council, honour people across a host of categories, including Person of the Year, Public Sector Hero, Charity Fundraiser of the Year, Child of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Health Service Hero, Sporting Hero, Good Neighbour of the Year, School of the Year, Spirit of Youth, Teacher of the Year and Best Community Project.

Paul said: "The Community Pride awards are the jewel in the crown of Benenden's community relations programme.

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

"We are always amazed at all the incredible stories that come in. It never ceases to amaze us just what incredible community spirit exists in York."

The categories cater for groups and individuals working selflessly to help others and Paul believes people should not hesitate to nominate them.

He added: "It's so incredible to see what people do for their fellow man and woman.

"It's so easy to nominate. It takes five to 10 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 keeps the ball rolling."

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 can be submitted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN.

You can also nominate online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride.

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 21.

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.