It's that time once again to get your nominations in for the County Durham Together Awards which are due to be held later this year - here's everything you need to know.

Hardwick Hall Hotel in Sedgefield will play host to The Northern Echo's County Durham Together Awards on December 5 to recognise those who make a difference in our communities.

The annual awards give us the chance to shine a spotlight on some of the inspirational, selfless, dedicated people - the unsung heroes in our region. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house at last year’s event - and this year’s once again will bring a rollercoaster of emotions.

We now need your help to celebrate these heroes and put in your nominations.

Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “We are delighted to support the return of the County Durham Together Awards. The awards are the perfect opportunity to recognise all those people in our communities who make a huge difference to their local area and those around them.

“Since the launch of these awards, we have seen some very worthy winners who help make County Durham the great place it is through their dedication and commitment to others. We can’t wait to celebrate the fantastic work of even more residents and volunteers through this year’s awards.”

Here's a full list of all the awards you can nominate people for this year.

(Image: Chris BOOTH)

Unsung Hero

This award will be presented to someone who, by giving up their free time, has made a significant contribution to other people’s lives or their community.

Young Person of the Year

This award recognises the outstanding achievements, resilience, and contributions of young individuals who have made a significant impact within our communities. From inspirational acts of kindness to ground-breaking initiatives, these remarkable young people are making a difference and shaping a brighter future for us all.

Public Service Award

This award recognises a public service team or individual making an outstanding contribution to the community in which they work. We want to hear about people who have gone above and beyond to provide a vital service for people in the area.

Volunteer of the Year

This award will be presented to a volunteer who has played a vital role in helping others. Selflessly using their time and energy to help benefit others.

Carer of the Year

This award recognises someone who has played a vital role in helping others. It could be an individual who has existing or new care responsibilities or someone who is employed as a carer who went above and beyond the requirements of their role to provide support to those who needed it most.

Community/Voluntary Group

This award will recognise community or voluntary groups who have a significantly positive impact on individuals or groups of individuals. We are looking for evidence of how this work has made the community a better or safer place to live. The category is open to all voluntary organisations and community groups.

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Health and Wellbeing Award

This award will recognise groups or projects which promote the improvement of health and well-being within their communities. It may be a project which offers advice, counselling and support for those with health issues. The category is open to all charities, voluntary organisations, community groups and individuals.

Environment Award

This award will go to an individual or organisation which has made a positive contribution to the environment. This could include the physical environment as well as helping to protect our climate.

Visitor Economy Award

Recognising an individual, organisation or business who has played a vital role in promoting the county as a safe and great place to visit for staycationers, supporting the hospitality and tourism sector, to help the visitor economy. It could include an advocate for the county, innovation in the visitor offer or recognising entrepreneurial skills.

Sports Person / Team of the Year

This award will recognise an individual or team in a sporting discipline, individual sport or sporting event that has achieved the most notable performance in recent months and shown examples of outstanding commitment, dedication and enthusiasm in their chosen sport.

Charity of the Year

This award celebrates the tireless efforts and impactful work of charitable organisations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving lives and making a positive difference in our communities. These charities exemplify compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Want to nominate someone? Click this link and fill out the form.