THE deadline for entries for this year's environment awards in County Durham has been extended.

The County Durham Environment Awards, now in their 27th year, have recognised hundreds of projects and activities with a strong environmental focus.

The deadline for the 2016 awards is now been extended to Friday July 29 to allow people more time to put themselves or others forward.

Entries are invited from the public, community organisations, businesses and schools across County Durham.

Awards are given across 12 categories for the built environment, climate change, community partnership, craftsmanship, greener business, natural environment, places and spaces, schools and colleges, volunteer group of the year, volunteer of the year – under 18, volunteer of the year – over 18 and waste management.

Individuals and groups can nominate themselves for an award in all but the two volunteer categories.

Durham County Council runs the awards on behalf of the County Durham Environment Partnership.

Terry Collins, chair of the environment partnership and chief executive of the council, said: “We hope that the Environment Awards will encourage people to tell us about their work.

“We know there are environmental projects out there which are making the county a better place to live, work and visit and we would love to hear more about them.

“The range of award categories is specifically designed to attract a diverse selection of entrants, from members of the public, volunteers and community groups to schools, businesses and specialists.

“We are keen to hear about all projects which are happening across the county, both large and small.”

To enter or to find out more, go to www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk/envawards or call 03000 265545.