A COUNCIL is launching its own Oscars to reward staff who make a difference to people's lives.

Councillor Eric Empson, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's cabinet chairman, said: "We want to put the pride into Redcar and Cleveland and really celebrate the contribution our staff make to improving the borough.''

The Pride - Positive Results In Delivering Excellence - Awards will recognise the contribution staff make to improving life.

Coun Empson said: "These awards are a fantastic way of promoting their good work and saying thank you to them. I would encourage everyone to make a nomination."

People can nominate council workers in three categories: the Extra Mile Award, for exceptional customer service; the Children's Smile Award, for making a difference to the life of a vulnerable child or children in the borough; and the Adult Smile Award, for making a difference to the life of a vulnerable adult or adults.

Nine other awards are open for staff to nominate their colleagues. They include Employee of the Year, Team of the Year and Innovation. Staff can also nominate employees in other local partner organisations for a Partner Award.

A nomination form is included in the spring issue of the council's magazine, River, Coast and Country.

People can vote online at the council's website www. redcar-cleveland.gov.uk and follow the Pride award link.

The closing date for entries is April 28.