CALLING all our heroes! It's time for us to salute your achievements.

Nominations open today for The Cumberland News Community Heroes Awards 2019.

And we need your help to ensure those who selflessly and tirelessly do so much to help others can receive a special thank-you.

We all have our own heroes - people who have been there when we've needed them most, who have inspired us to be the best we can or who, it seems, are always there with a helping hand to make life easier.

That might be a particular person who has helped on a one-to-one level or a group which makes your community a better place in which to live.

Whoever they are and whatever they do or have done, we want to hear all about them.

That means we need YOU to tell us who your heroes are and why they should be rewarded.

Chris Story, editor of The Cumberland News, said: "Heroism comes in all forms, from people putting themselves in harm's way to what might seem a simple act of kindness which makes a huge difference or those who encourage or inspire us to be the best we can.

"There are people who make a tremendous difference to peoples' lives, more often than not without even realising it or expecting recognition. That what makes our community heroes awards an amazing experience.

"They are a chance to turn the spotlight on those who would never expect to be in it, to show them how much they mean and say 'thank you'."

Once again, the awards will be presented during a special celebration at Carlisle Racecourse. This year's event will take place on Thursday, July 4.

"To help us ensure that your hero gets the recognition they deserve, we need you to nominate them and tell us a little about why they're heroic to you," added Chris.

"Only by you speaking up can we show them how valued they really are.

"I can't wait to spend time with the finalists when we celebrate their achievements - and the tremendous community spirit for which Cumbria is renowned the world over - this summer."

Our awards categories are:

  • Carer of the year
  • Good neighbour
  • Good friend
  • Young achiever of the year
  • Sporting hero
  • Best community project
  • Unsung hero
  • Volunteer of the year
  • Person of the year

Nominate your hero here.

The closing date for entries is May 13.