THE deadline for applications for a prestigious environmental awards scheme has been extended.

Entrants for this year’s County Durham Environment Awards have until Friday, August 8 to submit their application.

The awards, now in their 25th year, celebrate environmental projects and community activities that improve and enhance the local area.

Awards will be made in 12 categories, including built environment, climate change, schools and three categories of volunteering awards.

Terry Collins, chairman of the County Durham Environmental Partnership, said: “The Environment Awards are a unique opportunity to showcase the fantastic environmental work that takes place in County Durham.

“We want to make sure that in this special year – the 25th anniversary of the awards – that people have as much opportunity as possible to nominate environmental projects or individuals for an accolade.”

Shortlisting and judging will take place over the summer before the winners are announced at a ceremony in Durham in November.

For more information visit www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk/awards or call 03000-265545.