Blaby District Council is once again looking to honour the people and groups who make a positive difference to the district with the opening of the Community Award nominations.

First introduced last year, the Community Awards are a chance for the Council to recognise residents and voluntary groups who have continued to improve lives in Blaby District.

Three categories are open for nominations until Friday 18 November 2022: Volunteer of the Year; Young Volunteer of the Year; Community Group of the Year.

The winner and runner up from the volunteer categories will be decided by a Judging Panel, whilst the winner and runner up for the Community Group of the Year will be decided by a public vote after nominations close. Finalists will be invited to a special awards ceremony in January 2023.

Both Volunteer and Young Volunteer of the Year will honour people who have given up their time to help others in the district. Their efforts can include volunteering at a club or group or supporting an individual or improving the district. The winners of both categories will receive £100, with the runners up getting £50.

£750 will also be given to a chosen community group selected by the Volunteer and Young Volunteer winners, with £500 cash available for a group chosen by the runners-up.

The Community Group of the year category recognises groups or organisations that have improved the quality of life for residents within the District of Blaby. £1,000 is up for grabs for the winning group, whilst the runner up will receive £500.

Anyone interested in nominating can find out more and nominate online by visiting www.blaby.gov.uk/community-awards or request a paper form at vcshub@blaby.gov.uk or by calling 0116 275 0555.