A COUNTY’S environment awards are back for 2013 and open for nominations now.

The County Durham Environment Awards, now in their 24th year, recognise and reward the efforts of individuals and organisations who have worked to improve and enhance the county’s environment.

Nominations opened today and will remain open until Friday, July 12, with prizes up for grabs in 11 categories.

Judging and shortlisting will take place over the summer and the winners of the awards, which are supported by The Northern Echo, will be announced at a ceremony in Durham in October.

Terry Collins, chair of the County Durham Environment Partnership, said: “There are many people and organisations in County Durham who put a great deal of effort into protecting and improving the local environment.

“These awards are about acknowledging their hard work and their success and we are calling for people to nominate those who are worthy of recognition.”

Last year’s overall winner was Cross Lanes Organic Farm, near Barnard Castle, which won the Outstanding Award just days before celebrating its first anniversary.

Wheatley Hill Angling Club, the council’s Countryside Rangers team and Durham’s recently opened World Heritage Site visitor centre also picked up honours in a ceremony at Durham City’s Radisson Blu Hotel.

This year’s categories are: built environment, climate change, community partnership, craftsmanship, greener business, natural environment, schools and colleges, volunteer group of the year, volunteer of the year – under 18, volunteer of the year – over 18 and waste management.

The awards are run by Durham County Council, on behalf of the County Durham Environment Partnership.

The sponsors are Groundwork, Livin Housing and Durham Wildlife Trust. Other sponsorship opportunities are still available. Interested groups are invited to contact the Environment Partnership for further details.

The launch comes ahead of World Environment Day, which is Wednesday, June 5.

For more information on the awards or to make a nomination, contact the Environment Partnership by calling 03000-265-545 or going online to countydurhampartnership.co.uk/envawards