THE DISTRICT'S unsung heroes will finally receive the recognition they deserve during an evening of celebration.

Nominations are now officially open for the Braintree District Volunteer Awards which recognise the contribution and commitment of volunteers who have made a positive difference throughout the last year.

The 2019 edition of the awards will see a new voting system set up to enable young people to be nominated in each category.

The gongs on offer on the night include Inspirational role model, the Volunteer group award, Going the extra mile award and

Long service award.

Braintree Council's health and communities boss Peter Tattersley said: “Volunteers are at the heart of our community and we want to thank them for all of the time and effort they put in for the benefit of others. The Awards are a chance to thank, celebrate and promote volunteering. Volunteering can make you feel great, giving you a sense of achievement and pride.”

Now in its third year, the awards are jointly run by Braintree Council and Community 360 and will be held on Thursday, June 6 to coincide with National Volunteers Week.

Community360 chief exec Tracy Rudling added: “We are so proud of the volunteers we have supported in the Braintree district.

"The volunteer awards is a small way to show appreciation to those who offer their skills, energy, empathy and time to ensure we have a better connected community, and to thank volunteers for the ways in which they help to improve and change lives."

Any person who has helped fundraise, run a sports club, look after the environment, organise an event or help reduce loneliness is a prime candidate for an award.

Nominations can be made by filling out a form online or by calling the council. All entries must be put forward by 5pm on Thursday, May 2.

A panel of judges will then make a final decision on the winners, who will all be invited to the awards ceremony at Braintree Arts Theatre.

To make a nomination, contact 01376 552525 or visit braintree.gov.uk/volunteerawards.