The final countdown has begun for you to nominate the unsung heroes of Cumbria's floods disaster.

The #SpiritofCumbria Awards, supported by Sellafield Ltd and United Utilities, aim to recognise the very best of humanity, and offer a county-wide acknowledgement of the people who are the very backbone of Cumbria.

The #SpiritofCumbria hashtag trended on Twitter in the aftermath of the event, and was part of a hugely successful social media campaign to galvanise support for those affected by the disaster.

And it is that spirit and goodwill that we want to celebrate - as well as applauding the tremendous rate of recovery that has been witnessed county-wide in the months that have followed the floods.

Launched last month by CN Group, publishers of the News & Star, we have been overwhelmed by the stories of heroism and selflessness which have already been received. 

However it is not just the drama which has been worthy of recognition: there multiple entries recognising those stalwarts who quietly got on with life - and each day made an effort to help those around them.

From providing emergency accommodation or tea and biscuits to flood victims - and their rescuers, to offering a listening ear or donating old furniture, the tales have continued to pour in.

However, with almost 6,500 properties affected, we know there are hundreds of other people yet to receive the recognition and attention they deserve.

Among the judges will be Kieran Barr, communications business partner with Cumbria County Council. He said: "There are only a few hours left for people to nominate their flood heroes.

"December's storms ripped apart communities and devastated thousands of homes and businesses. However, there were some amazing stories of heroism, bravery and overwhelming generosity which have showcased the very best of the Cumbrian spirit.

"We want to make sure that no one goes unnoticed, and so would urge anyone who hasn't yet nominated their unsung hero to make sure they do so today."

Nominations close tonight for the awards - so it is not too late to enter online.

Visit www.newsandstar.co.uk/spirit and tell us who you thinks deserves to be nominated.

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner, being held at Garden @ Eden on Friday, July 1.