There are only two weeks left to make your nominations for the Richmond Community Heroes awards. Do you know an inspiring individual, group or business who deserves recognition for the work they have done in the local community? Nominate them now!

The Community Heroes programme is a chance for us to highlight and celebrate the commitment of the people and groups living and working in Richmond upon Thames, who improve the lives of our communities and represent the borough through their commitment to others and excellence in what they do.

It might be a young person who has led their peers through being a good example, someone who supports the elderly in their community or a group who helps look after their local park.

Nominations can be made for work directly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as other work not directly linked to the pandemic, but all work must have been carried out in a voluntary capacity.

Awards will once again be offered in specific categories, to reflect the breadth of voluntary work being done in communities.

Councillor Michael Wilson, Vice Chair of Richmond Council's Finance, Policy and Resource Committee said:

"We have already received over 80 nominations for local individuals and groups – all of them have committed hours and hours to helping improve the lives of others who live in our borough, without expecting anything in return.

"This year we know that even more people have donated their time to help people through the pandemic – we want to recognise their efforts and say a big thank you on behalf of the borough.

"If you received help or support over the past few weeks or months, please nominate them now."

Click HERE to submit your nomination for any category by Monday 9 November and find out more about last year's winners. You can also find hard copies of the nomination form in the Civic Centre or your local library.

A virtual awards ceremony will be held later this year.

Awards will be made in the following categories:

Business contribution in the community - Local businesses that have demonstrated commitment to their local area

Trustee of the Year - For a trustee of a group or charity who has gone above and beyond in their role

Community Group of the Year - Groups that exemplify what can be done to make a difference when people work together

Community Project of the Year - Projects and initiatives that have improved our borough and its local communities – run by individuals, groups or voluntary organisations

Outstanding Volunteer - For individuals who volunteer with a group, charity or organisation

Environmental Award - For individuals, projects and groups specifically focused on tackling climate change and environmental issues

Outstanding Sporting Achievement - Those whose efforts and achievements in sport vitalise communities, bring people together and support physical and mental wellbeing, or those who have achieved significant sporting success representing the borough

Young Person Achievement - The young people (under 18 years) who inspire and drive change in their communities and who act as role models for their peers

Lifetime Achievement - Those who have shown a long-term commitment to voluntary work and have made a significant contribution to their communities over ten or more years

Helping Hands - For individuals who make a difference to lives of others, not in association with a group, charity or organisation. This could be a caregiver, a good neighbour or even someone who gives their time to help out their family or friends in need