RESIDENTS of a west Dorset village are being asked to nominate neighbours to be named as community champions.

Symondsbury Parish Council has asked for nominations for the Community Champion Awards 2024.

A spokesperson for the council said: "There is no hard and fast criteria for the awards.

"Perhaps you know someone who has performed a task that has improved the local environment or the wellbeing of our parishioners.

"Or someone who has given up their time to support local organisations in a voluntary capacity e.g. Youth group workers and leaders, elderly, family and children support volunteers and carers (including local community drivers), countryside support workers helping preserve our beautiful natural heritage.

"You could also nominate someone working to preserve some of our historic buildings or helping to support them on a regular basis (community buildings, churches, schools, gardens etc.)

"Basically, if you are looking at a good person who puts themselves out and gives their time unselfishly - to enhance and benefit our local community and its surroundings – they would be worthy of a nomination."

Individuals must be nominated by another person, people or an organisation. Individuals cannot nominate themselves.

The awards are not limited to actual volunteers – they could be people go above and beyond, working in their day job at school clubs or care homes.

Nominations need to be submitted by May 31, with a prize giving event taking place before the end of the summer school term. 

The nomination form can be found in the ‘News’ section of the Symondsbury Parish Council website at http://www.symondsbury-pc.gov.uk/