THE outstanding and inspirational individuals and groups making a difference in communities across the borough of Darlington will receive the recognition they deserve at an upcoming awards event.

Nominations are open for the 14th annual Best of Darlington Awards, which celebrate the hard work and achievements of men and women of all ages, groups, charities and businesses in the town.

More than 500 guests attended last year’s awards ceremony held in the Dolphin Centre, which will also be the host venue for the 2019 awards event.

There are 15 categories to enter this year, which are: Public Service Hero; Exceptional Volunteer; Exceptional Young Volunteer; Contribution to the Arts; Contribution to the Environment; Contribution to the Community; Business Contribution to the Community; Bringing Success to Darlington; Entrepreneurial Spirit; Vocational Excellence; Academic Excellence; Exceptional Student; Exceptional Care; Contribution to Sport; and Performance in Sport.

The awards are open to Darlington residents of all ages, as well as people who work or study in the borough.

Seth Pearson, director of the One Darlington Partnership, said: “It’s fantastic that the Best of Darlington Awards enjoy such a high level of support and have a firm place in the hearts of Darlington people.

“It is all down to the nominations – that is what makes the awards so special. If you think somebody or a group, organisation or company has made an outstanding contribution, then let us know.”

All nominations for the Best of Darlington Awards are considered for the titles of Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year award.

The 2018 awards saw Peter Allan named Citizen of the Year for his extraordinary service to his community of Hurworth.

Harry Bowes received the Young Citizen of the Year Award for making a huge difference to young peoples’ lives through his copious volunteering.

Nominations will be considered by a panel of judges, and the final three nominees will be invited, with their nominators, to the awards ceremony at the Dolphin Centre on June 14. Nominations are open until Friday, March 15.

For more information or to make a nomination, visit onedarlington.org.uk/best-of-darlington or collect a form from Darlington Town Hall.

Alternatively, call 01325-405836 or email bente.sivertsen@darlington.gov.uk to request a postal entry.