TODAY we launch the third annual Hereford Times Health and Social Care Awards.

And could there possibly be a more appropriate time for an event thats aim is to publicly recognise and say thank you to the hard working staff in our health and care systems.

For if we know one thing, the coronavirus epidemic is going to put huge strain on those dedicated people who care for the most vulnerable in our society, whether they are in hospital, in a care or nursing home, or living independently with help in the community.

Many millions of elderly and ill people are frightened by the threat of Covid 19, and it will be to their carers and support staff they turn for advice and help and reassurance.

Carers will be juggling their own families' concerns with that of the clients they rely on them.

The physical and emotional strain will be great.

Our awards are highly valued by people in the sector because they put staff at the forefront.

The awards give public recognition to them and the work they do.

We have long known our care workers are heroes. Our awards have honoured them as such for the last two years.

Now, more than every, they need recognition, support, and our undying thanks.

To find out all the details of how to nominate someone go to www.herefordtimes.com/healthandsocialcareawards