MORE than 30 groups and individuals will be vying for top honours at this year’s green awards.

The shortlist has been revealed for the 2012 County Durham Environment Awards, to be announced at a ceremony in Durham City, on Tuesday.

Organised by the County Durham Environment Partnership to reward great design, environmental guardianship and community spirit, awards will be presented in 11 categories, including a volunteer group of the year section being held for the first time.

Among the projects making the shortlist are the redevelopment of a miners’ memorial hall, the creation of a polytunnel classroom and the restoration of a town hall clock and stained glass.

Partnership chairman Terry Collins, chairman of the County Durha said: “It is great that the awards continue to attract really high quality entries across all categories and from across the county.

“The range of categories is specifically designed to attract a really diverse selection of entrants, from environmental professionals and specialists to residents and volunteer groups giving up their time to make improvements in their communities.

“I’m very much looking forward to meeting the people involved in these great projects when we announce the awards next week.”

The County Durham Environment Awards are supported by The Northern Echo, Home Group, Livin, Durham Wildlife Trust and Groundwork.

CATEGORIES:

Built environment; Bishop Auckland Urban Renaissance, Durham World Heritage Site Visitor Centre, Craghead EIS, Discovery Centres one and two, Seaham Harbour Marina, Cross Lanes Organic Farm, near Barnard Castle, Esh Winning and Brandon schools, Graham Sport Centre, Durham, Esh Winning Miner’s Memorial Hall

Climate change; SPA Project, Spennymoor Town Hall solar panels, Fume cupboard energy reduction scheme, Durham University, Cross Lanes Organic Farm

Craftsmanship; Bolts Law Engine House, Spennymoor Town Hall clock and stained glass, Cross Lanes Organic Farm

Community partnership; Radisson Blu Hotel, Limestone LinX

Greener business; Cookers to Contactors, Cross Lanes Organic Farm

Natural environment and countryside improvement; Bowes Museum Play Area, Wanister Bog, near Chester-le- Street

Schools and colleges; Leadgate Infant and Nursery School, Elemore Hall School, Pittington, St Anne’s CE Primary School, Bishop Auckland

Volunteer group of the year; Shadforth Play Area, Wheatley Hill Angling Club, East Durham Heritage Group, Tanfield Lea Countryside Club, Volunteer Countryside Rangers, Just for Women, Guided Walks, Durham County Council, Friends of Flass Vale, Durham, Dene Team, Natural England

Volunteer of the year – under 18; Robert Brooksbank, Friends of Witton Gilbert Dene, Natasha Fishburn, Cotsford Junior School

Volunteer of the year – over 18; Brenda Thackeray, Stray Aid, Gwynneth Moore, Cotsford Junior School Waste management, Dalton Park Goes Green