NOMINATIONS are now open for this year’s Community Pride Awards, including the Person of the Year category.

The awards recognise the work of residents on York who go the extra mile to make a difference to the lives of others.

The awards feature both individual and group categories in order to celebrate the dedicated fundraisers, public sector workers, teachers and community volunteers throughout the city.

The winner of last year’s Person of the Year award was Sean Coxhead, nominated for his ‘wonderful charity work’ supporting Macmillan Cancer Support.

Sean was diagnosed with terminal cancer in May 2018 and sadly passed away in September last year.

After the diagnosis, Sean managed to raise a staggering £20,000 for Macmillan by taking part in marathons.

On receiving his nomination, Sean told The Press: “It’s amazing to be nominated.

“I believe if everyone can just set aside a small amount of time so much good work can be done and funds raised for needy charities.”

Sean was also nominated for Charity Fundraiser of the Year in last year’s awards. He was nominated for this by friends Gemma Wood and Holly Hennell for his dedication to raising money for the Macmillan charity.

This year’s awards will again include these categories as well as prizes for: the Spirit of Youth Award, Sporting Hero, Good Neighbour of the Year, Public Sector Hero, Best Community Project, School of the Year, Child of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and and Health Service Hero.

Three finalists from each category will be invited to the awards ceremony at York Racecourse later in the year, when the winners will be revealed.

All nominees must live in, or contribute to the community within the City of York Council area.

Entries can be posted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York YO1 9YN. Or you can submit your nomination on The Press website.

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 24. Nominations must include a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 with each entry and should include a photograph, which unfortunately we will be unable to return.