The Lord Mayor of Bradford believes more should be done to congratulate the "fantastic" people who promote community spirit across the district.

Councillor Choudhary Rangzeb, Bradford's third Asian Lord Mayor, was speaking during the official launch of the fifth annual Community Harmony Awards.

He said the awards presented a great opportunity to champion the people who unite the district's communities, but added that he would like to see even more events to recognise these "unsung heroes."

Last year's winners gathered with Coun Rangzeb to embrace the official opening of the awards at Bradford City Hall on Monday.

Anyone can be nominated for recognition whether as an outstanding individual, employee, group or business.

Coun Rangzeb said: "It's an excellent way of recognising the contribution of ordinary members of the public.

"In my experience we have many, many unsung heroes who do work very hard for the community that go unrecognised each year.'' The climax of the awards is on April 26, when nominees come together for a ceremony in City Hall's banqueting suite. Nominations will be considered by a panel of four and must be made by Friday, March 16. For more information call Mir Haider at Bradford Council equalities services on (01274) 432776, e-mail mir.haider@bradford.gov.uk or visit www.bradford.gov.uk/communityawards.

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