NOMINATIONS are still open for a special award recognising people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to support their communities.

The West Mercia Awards were launched by the area’s Police and Crime Commissioner Bill Longmore earlier this month in an effort to thank people who have helped make their communities safer and happier places to live.

There are three awards in the new scheme – Individual Champion of the Community, Group Champion of the Community and the Dedicated Service award – with one person from each Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire eligible in each category. Both individuals and groups are eligible for the awards.

Mr Longmore said: “We have already received some fantastic nominations for worthy people but would love to receive more so their efforts can be recognised.

“Many worthy people go above and beyond to ensure their communities are better places to live in but don’t get recognised so these awards are the perfect opportunity for people to thank them.

The awards will be presented at a ceremony at West Mercia Police’s headquarters in Hindlip, near Worcester, on Thursday, October 22, where officers and volunteers will also be applauded for their work keeping communities safe from harm.

For more information or to fill out a nomination form visit westmercia-pcc.gov.uk/News-and-Events/West-Mercia-Awards.aspx.

The deadline for nominations is 4pm on Friday, September 4.