PILLARS of the community are to be recognised by a local authority's community awards for the fifth year.

North Yorkshire County Council has launched its latest campaign to recognise 'selfless' volunteers, who are making an active difference to their town or village within the county.

Maturing in age, the awards have been refined over the years to reflect and give praise to those who have carried out a number of tasks for others.

Councillor Robert Windass, chairman of North Yorkshire County Council, said: “The community awards honour the remarkable work of local volunteers who are committed to improving lives across North Yorkshire.

“If you think someone you know deserves some recognition, I urge you to nominate them.

"Let’s show our appreciation for more unsung heroes.”

There are four award categories in the community awards.

They include Best Community Group, which is awarded to groups who carry out voluntary activities, Best Community Project, awarded to time-limited voluntary projects.

Whilst, the Volunteer of the Year is awarded to volunteers over the age of 25, and the Young People Volunteering Award, is awarded to individuals aged 25 and under.

Nominations opened on Monday, April 8 and will remain open until Friday, June 7, before they are counted up and final decisions are made later this year.

Last year, members from the Great Ayton Discovery Centre were presented with an award for Best Community Project, at the awards event in Harrogate.