A NEW awards scheme recognising dedicated members of the community is being launched by Malvern Hills District Council.

The first Our Malvern Hills Community Awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, December 1, at Langland Stadium, the home of Malvern Town FC.

They will recognise those individuals, projects, groups and organisations whose dedication and commitment has improved the lives and well-being of residents.

And now residents of the town and the district are being urged to make the awards scheme a success by nominating people and organisations that work hard to make Malvern Hills a better place to be.

Nominations are being sought in six categories – Safe and Sound, Improving Lives, Action in the Community, Cleaner and Greener, Young Person’s and Business in the Community.

The creation of the awards is part of the council’s five-year plan and its commitment to building stronger and healthier communities.

Cllr David Watkins, the council's portfolio holder for healthier communities, said: “Through the creation of these awards, we hope to shine a light on the range of people contributing, day-in and day-out, to the vitality of the district in so many different ways.

“So often we take what these people do for granted, and this will be a chance to say a small thank-you for everything they do and hopefully inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

“We all know someone, or a group or organisation, doing wonderful things in our district so please take the time and nominate them so we can give them the recognition they deserve.”

For more information and to download a nomination form, visit malvernhills.gov.uk/communityawards. Paper copies are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Church Street and Malvern Library in Graham Road. They can also be requested by calling Sophie Jackson on 01689 862417.

Nominations have to be back with the council on Sunday, November 6.