EASINGTON District Council has begun the search to find east Durham's sporting stars.

It is inviting nominations for the annual District of Easington Sports Awards, to be presented in February.

They honour the achievements of residents of all ages, including high-achieving performers as well as people who have shown outstanding commitment to sport.

The categories are junior sportsman (under 18), senior sportsman, junior sportswoman (under 18), senior sportswoman, disabled sportsperson, community coach, community volunteer (official or administrator), team or club of the year and sporting school of the year.

A council spokeswoman said: "Anyone can nominate themselves, their school or team, or someone they feel deserves recognition. Nominees must live in the district or take part in sport in the area and junior nominees must be under 18 on December 31.''

Nomination forms are available from the council's sports development unit on 0191-527-0501 or at www.easington.gov. uk/services/sport