THE countdown is on to the biggest event of the year for grassroots sport in our region.

A bumper number of nominations have been received for The Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards.

And a judging panel, including representatives from event partners Darlington Building Society and Century Radio, met yesterday to decide the shortlists for the award categories.

"The calibre of the nominations has been exceptional. The judges have had a very difficult time in narrowing down the field," said Colin Tapping, deputy editor of The Northern Echo.

"We have all been impressed by the depth of sporting talent and commitment in the region."

The awards night takes place at the Tall Trees Hotel, Yarm, on Thursday, November 22.

Awards will be presented for the Under-16 Outstanding Performance, Over-16 Special Achievement and Under-18 School Team, plus others.

Also honoured will be the personality winning the Game for a Laugh award, and the person chosen as the overall Local Hero of 2001.

Details of the shortlists for each category will be published in Local Heroes next week.

Tickets for the awards dinner, price £10, can be obtained from The Northern Echo offices in Darlington, or on the ticket hotline (01325) 505286