UNSUNG heroes who make a difference in their Bradford communities are to be recognised for their dedication and commitment as the fourth annual Community Stars campaign begins today.

The honours are being organised by the Telegraph & Argus and Bradford Council to ensure hard-working volunteers are rewarded for their efforts in their neighbourhoods.

Now it is over to readers to nominate people in their streets and communities who they feel have gone the extra mile.

Nominations, which must be received by Monday, September 8, will be whittled down by a panel of judges before a shortlist goes to public vote.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony at City Hall on December 8 where they will each be presented with the prestigious Bradford Medal.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Mike Gibbons, said: “The Community Stars Awards really do celebrate the unsung heroes of our amazing district.

"Those nominated are the real stars of our local communities, who generously give up their time, energy and skills to make a difference."

Deputy leader of Bradford Council Councillor Imran Hussain added: "Every year we have some fantastic people nominated and we will again this year.

"It is one of those initiatives that really does portray the Bradford district in a good light, celebrating the fantastic people.

"Previous Awards have been a great success and put the focus on those people who do that little bit extra which can make all the difference for the people around them.

"Last year we held a wonderful awards ceremony and it helped to give a little bit of recognition for all the wonderful hard work that is going on all around us, every day."

This year, we are looking for nominations in the categories of Good Neighbour, Volunteer, Fundraiser, Community Group, Young Active Citizen, Community Champion, and Lifetime Achievement in Volunteering and Fundraising.

Nominees must be people who spend their spare time making valuable contributions to improving life in the district.

You need to describe why you think the person you are nominating deserves the award and give an example of what they have done in the past 12 months.

Last year winners included James Brown, founder of the charity People First Keighley & Craven, who triumphed in the Good Neighbour charity.

The organisation now has more than 200 members and Mr Brown was described as an excellent ambassador and role-model for young people with learning disabilities.

Recalling his win, he said: "I was quite shocked to be honest, as winning had never really entered my head.

"I was chuffed to get my hard work recognised, and it was a real pleasure to be at the awards."