THE Community Pride Awards are a “great opportunity” to celebrate the inspirational achievements of York’s heroes, according to City of York Council.

The awards are run by The Press in partnership with the council, which is also sponsoring the Public Sector Hero category once again this year.

This award is for someone who works in the public sector and has gone that extra mile to help others or use his or her skills to assist others to improve their environment.

Jon Stonehouse, corporate director of children, education and communities at City of York Council, said: “Staff from York’s public sector support residents, their communities and the city year in, year out.

“This is a great opportunity to recognise their work, often carried out 24 hours a day and which makes a make a difference to our lives.

“From protecting or caring for our most vulnerable, to keeping the city on the move, to developing new technology, the awards shine a light on their many areas of responsibility and expertise.

“We’re proud of them all. So now’s the time for you to let them know the difference they’ve made!

“Please nominate the staff who work in the public sector and who you know deserve a York Press Community Pride Award!”

Mr Stonehouse also says there are many colleagues working “tirelessly” in the public sector across York and is urging Press readers to nominate them so their efforts can be recognised.

The winner of the category last year was Sally Dunsire, a reprographics officer at All Saints RC School, in South Bank where she has worked for 25 years.

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press in partnership with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden.

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

Or submit your nomination online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride.

The closing date for entries is Wednesday, July 27. Nominations must include a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 with each entry and may include a photograph, which unfortunately we will be unable to return.