The search is on to find the individuals, organizations, and businesses that make a big difference in small South Cambridgeshire communities. Nominations are now open for South Cambridgeshire District Council‘s sixth annual Community Awards celebration, and residents are being asked to put forward their community heroes.

Thanks to sponsors Hill, the 2016 Awards will be bigger and better than ever with an extra category being added to give the best possible snapshot local community and business activity.

The five gongs up for grabs are:

• Village Hero – recognizes outstanding individual contributions to community life.
• Parish Councillor of the Year – recognizes the great work done by parish councillors who have given their own time to improve the local community for all of us in 2015/16.
• Outstanding Youth Initiative – recognizes the excellent work done by youth groups and local businesses to support the development of young people in South Cambridgeshire.
• Outstanding Local Service/Amenity – recognizes the amazing services provided by local shops, pubs, post offices, libraries, and many more besides.
• Environment Award – recognizes the valuable contribution made by groups who seek to improve our villages for the long and short term.
• Wellbeing Award – recognizes the many groups whose aim it is to improve our health and well being, both mental and physical.

Cllr Mick Martin, the cabinet member who oversees the awards, said:

Local people and businesses are what make a community, and it’s important that we celebrate all their dedication and hard work. We have had some excellent nominations in the past, but we need your local knowledge to make sure all the worthy people are put forward. Please make sure you take a few minutes to nominate the deserving people, organizations and businesses in your area so they get the credit they deserve.

Nominations close on Friday, 15th January 2016.

Further information about the categories and nomination forms can be found here.