THE hunt is on to find Spennymoor's unsung heroes, in a special contest run by the town's masonic lodge.

People in the town are urged to put forward friends, relatives or acquaintances for the Spennymoor Person of the Year contest.

It is the first year such a competition has been run and nominations can include anyone from a child who cares for their grandparents to someone who has gone beyond the call of duty for a good cause.

Stuart Howarth, from the lodge, said: "We thought we would put something back in the community with this award. People of any age or sex can be put forward for anything at all, it's the unsung heroes we're trying to wheedle out.

"It's surprising how many people are out there making a difference. Half the time they don't realise what they are doing is something special."

The masons will also be donating trophies to Spennymoor's two secondary schools, which will be awarded to young people who have helped the community.

The winners will be invited to an open day at the masonic hall to receive their trophy and a prize.

Send nominations to the Spennymoor Masonic Hall, 2-4 Dundas Street, Spennymoor, DL16 6AR.