Nominate your local hero

Nominations in previous years have recognised those who have spent their own time litter-picking, hosting fitness classes to help people stay active, or working extensively with a charity or youth group to make a different to the lives of others.  

Last year, the council celebrated 14 inspiring award-winners - including our first dog - as the judging panel featuring Leader of the Council, Cllr Ian Edwards, and council officers selected from a record number of 167 nominations across three categories: Helping Communities, Helping Vulnerable People, and Promoting Health and Wellbeing.   

Cllr Edwards said: "Each year we read the heartwarming and inspiring stories of local heroes, which give us an immense sense of pride.  

"Getting the opportunity to recognise individuals and groups, whose dedication makes our borough exceptional, is at the heart of these awards, and I would urge residents that know someone like this to take the time to nominate them and give us an opportunity to say thank you." 

Among last year's winners was Gavin O'Reilly, from South Ruislip, who won 'bronze' in the Helping Vulnerable People category for his work aiding residents in need, organising litter picks, and working with local councillors to enhance the area.  

On whether people should put forward a nomination, Gavin said: "They should do it, one hundred per cent. It really does make a difference; I'm already going to be nominating somebody.  

"You have a faint idea there's good people doing things, but you don't really know who they are or what they're doing and just how many of them there are so this [awards ceremony] really does highlight it."   

Nominations open today ( Monday 3 November) and close on Wednesday 31 December. Winners will be presented their awards at a special ceremony at the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre, Uxbridge on Tuesday 10 February.  

More details on how to nominate can be found at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/community-awards.