DO YOU know an unsung hero who deserves to be recognised for their hard work?

Now is your time to thank individuals and groups who volunteer in their community for a Somerset Star Volunteer Award.

Nominations are open from Monday, February 27 until Friday, April 21.

Anyone can put forward individuals and volunteer groups who go that extra mile in their communities and have a positive impact on other people’s lives.

Somerset County Council is working with Somerset You Can Do, Engage and Spark to support the campaign.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, chairman of Somerset County Council said: “This is a great opportunity to thank those many unsung heroes who give up their free time in order to help others and improve their local community.

“Each district will choose a final Somerset Star Volunteer Award winner, presented with their ‘Somerset Star’ award at events planned to coincide with National Volunteers Week (Thursday June 1 to Wednesday June 7).

"All five district winners will then be put forward for the opportunity to be crowned ‘County winner’, who will receive their award at the Somerset County Council’s Chairman’s Awards in the autumn.”

You can nominate a ‘Star Volunteer’ by downloading a form at somersetvolunteer.co.uk If you are a business or organisation interested in sponsoring an event, or one of the awards, contact your relevant volunteer centre or Somerset You can Do on 01278 664180.

Somerset You can Do is Somerset County Council’s Volunteer Service provider.

For more information on becoming a volunteer and to find out more about volunteering opportunities in your area, visit somersetvolunteer.co.uk or do-it.org or contact Spark on 01935 475914 if you live in South Somerset, Mendip or Sedgemoor or Engage on 01643 707123 if you live in West Somerset or Taunton Deane.