A COMMUNITY awards scheme has been launched to find Cotswold's greatest champions.

Cllr Julian Beale, chairman of Cotswold District Council, is inviting the public to nominate residents and teams who are Cotswold champions, helping to make the district a better place to live.

Cllr Beale says: “This is the first year of what I hope will become an annual event to thank residents in the District who often go the extra mile in making life better for others. I am indebted to the sponsors who have made the Cotswold Champions Awards scheme possible, and I look forward to receiving a very wide and varied range of nominations.”

Cash awards of £1,000 are on offer for each of the winners in seven categories as follows:

Carer of the Year Award – a person who cares for a relative, friend or neighbour.

Village Hero Award – a person who goes above and beyond for their village.

Town Champion Award – a person who makes an impact in their neighbourhood.

Unsung Hero Award – a person who quietly makes a difference to other people’s lives.

Community Team Award – people from a sports club, activity group, health group etc. who give time to assist others.

Charity Event Award – a team that organises events to raise funds for charities.

Young Volunteer of the Year Award – a person aged18 or under who gives up time to help others.

Nomination forms for awards are available for online completion and submission on the council’s website at cotswold.gov.uk/cotswoldchampions

The nomination process is simple. Anyone recommending people or teams will be asked to supply the relevant contact details and also provide a statement outlining why their nominee deserves a particular award.