A SHORTLIST of six has been announced in the search for a community's citizen of the year.

On Tuesday, the Mayor of Durham will announce the winner of the second annual Durham Community Citizen Award, during a reception at the Gala Theatre.

The finalists represent a diverse range of community champions, including the youngestever nominee, 15-year-old Aaron Phillips, from Sunderland Bridge.

All are hoping to follow in the footsteps of the winner of last year's inaugural competition, Margaret Nancarrow, of Shadforth.

The awards were launched to celebrate the work of community stalwarts, unsung heroes and dedicated volunteers who give up their time to help out in their communities.

More than 40 entries were whittled down to six by a panel of representatives from the Council for Voluntary Services and Haslam Homes.

This year's finalists are: ● Karon Willis, of Brasside, whose widespread community work includes running the village football team; ● Audrey Burnip, of Carrville, who is a stalwart of the local Methodist Church and Guides and Brownies; ● Clive Lawson, of Quarrington Hill, who helps maintain the village community centre and churchyard, as well as organising events for the elderly; ● Alice Severs, of Nevilles Cross, who volunteers for a wide range of disabled groups, including providing commentary on Durham cricket matches for the blind and partially sighted; ● Aaron Phillips, of Sunderland Bridge, who at the age of only 15 works tirelessly to keep the village clean and tidy; ● Ethel Cummings, of Ushaw Moor, a veteran Labour Party member who organises activities for young and old.

Each finalist will receive £100 to put towards the community project of their choice, while the overall winner will receive £500 for their chosen project.