NOMINATIONS are still open for the annual Community Stars Awards, which aim to recognise Bradfordians who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

The awards, organised by the Telegraph & Argus and Bradford Council, honour the district's often unsung heroes, with nominations put forward by the public.

There are 12 categories, and nominations remain open until Friday, 15 October.

The 'good neighbour' category, sponsored by Incommunities, celebrates those who support the people around them, something which has been all the more important this year, given that we began 2021 under lockdown.

The 'outstanding contribution to early years' award is sponsored by Better Start Bradford, and will recognise those who "have a hugely positive impact on the life of babies, young children and their families".

The third category, 'shared values in action', is for the people and initiatives which help to make the Bradford district a place where everyone feels safe, understood and able to fully participate in the opportunities available to them. It is sponsored by two organisations, Bradford for Everyone and People Can.

The 'voluntary and community group' award category, which is sponsored by Volunteering Bradford, will recognise groups "run for the benefit of local residents" across the district, while 'volunteer of the year' will pay tribute to "a resident who goes out of his or her way to provide a crucial community service".

The 'young active citizens' award will celebrate younger volunteers, while 'the business making a difference' category will "shine a spotlight on the district’s companies which go the extra mile".

'Fundraiser of the year' will acknowledge the "huge efforts" made to create change in communities, while the 'outstanding student of the year' award comes after another year which has been interrupted by coronavirus, with students succeeding despite having to contend with remote learning and isolation.

New categories have also been introduced this year to recognise the responses to Covid-19. These include 'Covid community star', which aims to honour "individuals or community groups who have made an exceptional contribution" amid the pandemic.

'Covid business star' will recognise companies which have powered through the crisis, while the 'Covid public service star' award will also acknowledge the efforts made by people during the pandemic.

Steve Blackman, CEO of Volunteering Bradford, said: "Volunteering Bradford is proud to support the annual Community Stars Awards. This gives us a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the amazing groups and individuals who contribute so much to community life in our district"

Nominations can be made online, at thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/communitystars/communitystarsnominationform/.