OUR city's unsung heroes will enjoy their night in the spotlight tomorrow, when the York Community Pride campaign reaches its glittering finale.

The invitations have been sent, the balloons have been ordered and the stage is set for one of the biggest events in York's calendar.

The vast field of nominees has been whittled down to just three for each category, and the lucky winners will be announced at a glamorous ceremony and dinner at York Racecourse tomorrow.

This is the third year of the awards, which are jointly run by The Press and City of York Council. We launched this year's campaign back in February, and have been inundated with nominations for people you think deserve recognition.

From neighbours, to teachers, to shopkeepers, to campaigners, you have been telling us all about the people you think do York proud. The finalists will be joined at the racecourse by representatives from The Press and the council, and local dignitaries including the Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu who will say grace before dinner.

The sell-out event will end with the presentation of our York Community Pride Person of the Year award, which is given to the person deemed to have made the most outstanding contribution to the city.

Last year, the accolade was won by Professor Andy Smith, who fought back from a life-threatening brain tumour to complete marathon charity cycle rides and to chair Active York.

As recently reported in The Press, Prof Smith's tumour returned a few weeks later - but thanks to pioneering laser surgery, he is fighting back once again.

Kevin Booth, editor of The Press, said: "We're honoured that the Archbishop is joining us and has agreed to give a speech. This year we have more categories than before and some outstanding nominations.

"We're there to pay tribute to the people who are the lifeblood of our community and it promises to be a night to remember."

Council leader Steve Galloway said: "The events in the past have always been a mixture of emotion and excellent entertainment, and I am sure this year's ceremony will be even better.

"I believe that it will be a very special night for the people who have been nominated for the awards and for the actual winners."

There are 14 awards being presented in total this year, including two new categories: teacher of the year and neighbour of the year.