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BBC Radio Derby wants your nominations for individuals and groups who deserve a 2009 Community Champions Award.

This is the third annual awards and this year they are bigger than ever! We are seeking to recognise and celebrate people who do more than most to help neighbours and communities across our community.

They are the unsung heroes and heroines who seek no reward for the outstanding effort they put in.

Perhaps they do voluntary work, a neighbour that goes the extra mile or maybe a young person who is a role model for others. We want to hear about them and highlight their inspirational stories.

Tom Chambers at last year's event

This year there are fourteen separate categories of awards, covering a wide range of endeavour – from those who go out of their way to help neighbours to people who show great kindness to animals, from the unsung heroes who support local sport to volunteers who involve themselves in community affairs.

All you need to do is nominate the person you think ought to be recognised and why. We will then put them in the most suitable category of the awards listed below.

We will be featuring the best stories on-air, online and giving out awards to the winners in a star-studded ceremony at Pride Park Stadium in May.

How can I nominate someone?

Fill in the online form using the link below. Alternatively entry forms and details will be available from BBC Radio Derby’s reception (01332 361111) during office hours.

Nominations open on Wednesday 14th January and close on Friday 10th April at 5pm.

The fourteen categories are:

• Achieving Against the Odds
• Be Inspiring
• Carer
• Children in the Community
• Courage
• Extra Mile
• Fundraiser of the Year
• Great Neighbour
• Kindness to Animals
• The Chief Constable's Special Award
• The Mayor's Cultural Champion Award
• Unsung Sporting Hero
• Volunteer - Young
• Volunteer - Adult