The judging of the Local Heroes awards 2009 took place at Bannatyne's Hotel in Darlington today.
The judges sifted through hundreds of nominations and have come up with a final three for each category plus the line-up of winners.
Naturally, I can't give anything away but I can confidently say we have one of the best overall winners we have had in the 10-year history of the awards.
The really hard thing is having to leave out so many brilliant nominees.
The line-up of finalists will be published in Saturday's Local Heroes supplement and the awards will be presented at Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, on December 3.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here