A CAMPAIGN to find community-minded residents dedicated to making a difference in Darlington has been launched to reward their good deeds.

Nominations have opened to find five “local heroes” in need of recognition of their everyday acts of kindness.

Staff in Darlington’s Mangobean coffee shop, in the town’s Feethams leisure complex, have appealed for nominations in the contest that offers free coffee, espresso and hot chocolate for a year to standout citizens.

Shuhel Ahmed, Mangobean franchisee, said: “Everyone’s idea of a hero is different, which is why we thought it would be great to give people a platform to publicly thank and acknowledge those who they admire and appreciate.

“It could be a grandparent who helps look after children, or the friend who’s always there with a kind word or helping hand.

“Or it could be the lollipop lady who’s there to help you safely across the road each day, or the dad who always makes his children laugh.

“We love being a part of this community and thought this was a terrific way to recognise that the people of Darlington are one of a kind.”

The franchise already offer discounted drinks to NHS staff, police officers, firefighters and students.

Simon Hawkins, development director with Urban and Civic – the property development company behind the multi-million pound Feethams development – said: “As a local man myself, I take great pride when our community spirit makes such a huge impression on people.”

Nominations for the contest are now open before voting begins on shortlisted heroes.

To vote, visit facebook.com/feethamsdarlington