If you know a local unsung hero, then now is the time to highlight their commitment to the local community.

For the nominations are now open for the Mayor’s Pride Awards which recognise exceptional and outstanding individuals and groups who make notable contributions to St Albans.

Organised by St Albans district council in association with the Herts Advertiser, the St Albans Centre for Voluntary Service and Radio Verulam, the awards are designed to celebrate those who benefit the community in a remarkable way.

Nominations can be made in the following categories: Community Champion of the Year, Cultural Innovation Award, Young Person of Distinction, Community Project of the Year, Community Oriented Business of the Year, Environmental Champion of the Year, Voluntary Sector Award, Inclusive Communities Award.

It’s quick and easy to nominate. An online form and further information are available from the council’s website, at www.stalbans.gov.uk/mayorsprideawards.

Alternatively pick up a paper copy from the Civic Centre, Alban Arena, Harpenden Public Halls, leisure centres, doctors, dentists, schools, libraries and other community venues.

All nominations must be made by Friday January 16. The panel of judges will include the Mayor and public, private and voluntary sector representatives who will meet to discuss nominations and select winners.

Winners will be announced at a free gala evening at the Alban Arena at the end of March. The event will feature an array of community heroes and their stories, special guest speakers and live entertainment.

A collection will be takes for the Mayor’s charity, The Dream Foundation, which provides disadvantaged young people with access to the performing arts.

Mayor Cllr Geoff Harrison said: ““The Mayor’s Pride Awards honour extraordinary local people and outstanding community groups in St Albans.

“They give us the opportunity to recognise the virtues and achievements of little-known heroes and the hard work of volunteers who don’t seek praise for themselves.

“So please tell us about our community heroes who go the extra mile to make a difference. Get your nominations in for a person or a group that deserves to receive a Mayor’s Pride Award and public recognition for all their hard work.”

Alison Bainbridge, who won last year, said: “It was a great honour to win the award for Community Champion in last year’s Mayor’s Pride Awards.

“Setting up the Raindrops on Roses gift shop to raise funds for Herts Against Cancer, was a very big challenge and a step into the unknown.

“It was a huge encouragement to be nominated for the award and extremely exciting to be the winner.”