A SEARCH is under way for brave North-East men and women who have saved someone's life.

The Life Savers Awards, which recognise the people behind Britain's most inspiring rescue stories, are presented by Vodafone in recognition of the vital role mobile phones can play in such rescues.

One of last year's winners was the RAF Boulmer 202 squadron, a Northumberland-based search and rescue team, which successfully rescued four people in severe weather conditions following a plane crash near Balmoral, Scotland.

Flight Lieutenant Jon Evans, Flying Officer Andy Smith and Flight Sergeant John Caseley were reunited with Carl Joseph, the pilot whose life they saved, at the awards.

Ten national life savers will be selected from this year's nominations, who will be invited to London later this year to be personally congratulated by Prime Minister Tony Blair at 10 Downing Street.

Mr Blair said: "The prospect of risking one's life to save another is by no means an easy decision.

"Yet, what is striking about the brave people who are nominated for these awards is that they do not think twice - taking action is for them the most natural thing to do.

"For a person to selflessly save somebody's life should never be undervalued.

"It is a fantastic example of courage."

The awards are open to anyone who has help save a life within the past two years, whether a member of the public or the emergency services.

Nominations can be made by calling 0870 902 3333, collecting a form from any Vodafone store or by visiting the awards website: www.vodafone.co.uk/lifesaver