NOMINATIONS are being sought for the arts and culture element of the annual Craven Community Champions Awards.

The ceremony takes place early next year, but nominations have to be in next month to allow for judging.

The Arts and Culture Award recognises people who have made a real difference to the arts, heritage and culture in Craven.

It can be an individual or group which has made a huge contribution to cultural life in the district.

The panel will be looking for those who may perhaps have helped promote excellence and innovation in the arts.

They may have have helped to make arts and culture accessible to everyone in the community and have made a positive difference to improving the well-being of residents.

Judges will also be looking for nominees who have been creative in making the most of the resources available to them.

This year Alexander’s Bar & Kitchen, based in a refurbished Grade II listed building at the top of Skipton High Street, is sponsoring the award.

The restaurant is owned by local entrepreneur Susannah Daley at The PEEL Entertainment Group of Broughton Hall, who has been sponsoring this award for several years.

A spokesman for Alexander’s said: “We’re delighted to continue this tradition and thrilled to support the Arts and Culture Award, which remains close to our hearts.

“The Craven Community Champions Awards are an important annual event in our calendar, giving well deserved recognition to inspirational people who are dedicated to making a real difference in their community. The team at Alexander’s would like to wish all entrants the very best of luck.”

Last year’s winner of the Arts and Culture category was Cantores Salicium, a chamber choir which has raised money for a number of local projects including Long Preston Church, Kirkby Malham Church, the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust and the Cave Rescue Association.

Nomination forms are available on the Council website at: www.cravendc.gov.uk/communitychampions or pick one up from any local participating shop or service, library or doctors surgery. To put forward a group or individual for a Community Champions Award, please complete a nomination form before November 10.

The winners of those shortlisted for an award will be announced on February 6 at the ceremony.

The event takes place at the Coniston Hotel and Country Estate.