NOMINATIONS are flooding in for the tenth annual Community Stars Awards, a celebration of Bradford's unsung heroes.

The Community Stars awards, organised by the Telegraph & Argus and Bradford Council, are designed to give recognition to those striving to make a difference in their local communities.

Our readers are being asked to nominate people before judges whittle them down to a shortlist of nominees.

In last year's awards, more than 18,000 people shouted up for those working quietly behind the scenes in the district's communities.

In 2020, the awards will take on a new special meaning, reflecting on the efforts, sacrifices and dedication of Bradfordians during the pandemic.

From food banks and volunteers to kind neighbours, many people have rallied round those in need in what has been one of the most challenging times of the 21st century.

There are nine awards up for grabs in total - here's what you need to know.

The Voluntary & Community Group Award, sponsored by Volunteering Bradford, is open to any voluntary and community group that operates in Bradford district. All not-for-profit groups are able to be nominated regardless of their size or scope.

The Shared Values in Action Award, sponsored by Bradford For Everyone, will celebrate people who are doing activities which bring people together.

Entries are online only this year.

Bradford For Everyone has listed different criteria it is looking for such as respect, caring, sharing and protecting.

The Outstanding Contribution to Earliest Years of Life Award, sponsored by Better Start Bradford, shows appreciation to the difference made in the life on babies, young children and their families.

For the Better Start Bradford award, please email Mahmood.mohammed@bradford.gov.uk with the nominee/group, number, email address, address, and postcode and contact details of the nominator.

The other six categories include Community Group, Volunteer, Community Champion, Fundraiser, Young Active Citizen and Business.

The finalists will be revealed in November with a special finalists supplement in the Telegraph & Argus paper and online.

More details can be found on the nomination form.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there will not be a ceremony this year but winners will receive a sparkling, silver medal.

People can nominate someone for an award via the online form here.

Cllr Abdul Jabar, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Neighbourhoods and Community Safety, said: “The Community Stars awards give us the chance to celebrate the real stars of our community and the positive impact they have on society. The people who get nominated for these are what makes Bradford district such a special place to live and work in. This year, perhaps more than ever before, we have seen our district come together to help each other during the pandemic."