ENTRIES for the region’s most prestigious green awards are to open later this week.

The County Durham Environment Awards, now in their 26th year, will be launched on Friday to coincide with World Environment Day.

The awards honour individuals and projects which enhance or improve the environment in County Durham.

Terry Collins, chair of the County Durham Environment Partnership, said: “We hope that the Environment Awards will encourage people to tell us about their work so we can give it the recognition it deserves, we are keen to hear about all projects, large and small.

“The range of categories is specifically designed to attract a diverse selection of entrants.”

Applications are invited from individuals, community organisations, businesses and schools across the county in 12 categories ranging from volunteer of the year to climate change.

Last year a total of 53 projects and individuals were awarded, with three projects taking the title of ‘outstanding’.

For more information or to enter, please visit www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk/envawards or call 03000-265545

Entries must be made ahead of the deadline of Friday, July 24.

Shortlisting and judging will take place during August and September, while the winners be announced at a ceremony in Durham in November.