A PLEA has been made for people to nominate police workers who have made a difference within their local community.

For the first time, the public will be able to nominate an individual who has gone above and beyond their day-to-day duties.

They are looking for those officers who have demonstrated one of three core behaviours - courage, compassion or inspiration - while keeping their local community safe.

The public can nominate police officers, staff, community support officers, specials or volunteers for the new awards.

Assistant Chief Constable Ken McIntosh, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “This is a great opportunity for members of the public to have their say and give the recognition to those members of the police family who work extremely hard and go that extra mile to deliver safer communities.

“I’m sure that the people of North Yorkshire would agree with me that it is important that these acts and skills are properly identified and recognised.”

Nominations can be made via the website northyorkshire.police.uk/awards or posted to Public Choice Award, Staff Office, North Yorkshire Police, Newby Wiske, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA.

The closing date for nominations is August 15 with the winner being announced in October.