Search begins for Pride of Shropshire
The search has begun for the "Pride of Shropshire" . . . people, communities or organisations who go the extra mile to make the county proud.
This is the sixth year the Shropshire Star has run the awards, and for the 2013 competition it has again teamed up with Market Drayton dairy giant Müller, and a host of other local sponsors.
One overall champion will be crowned at a ceremony at Shrewsbury Town Football Club's stadium on June 25, along with nine category winners.
Judges are seeking to recognise courage, learners, good neighbours, carers, environmental champions, special young people, and young people doing good community work.
There is also a new award this year for a "People's Champion" – someone who is key to keeping things moving in their local town or village. Categories for special young person, and local hero for the armed forces and emergency services, also return.
So now, it's over to YOU to nominate a person, group or people or organisation deserving of recognition . . . or put yourself forward.
Log onto the Pride of Shropshire website, www.prideofshropshireawards.com, to submit a recommendation online.
Entries close before the Easter break on Friday, March 29.
Who will follow on from last year's Pride of Shropshire champion, inspirational Cheswardine teenager David Walley, who cheated death after a shooting accident, or previous winners such as Corvedale farmer and community stalwart Margaret Deakin, Chris Breakwell from Burford near Ludlow, Shrewsbury's Meole's Got Talent group, or star learner Teina McGarry, from Whitchurch?
As the county faces up to what looks certain to be another difficult economic year, it's the perfect time to hunt down good news stories and deliver a timely dose of optimism.
Let's recognise and celebrate the contributions of those who are often least likely to seek out the limelight, but without whom the quality of life in Shropshire would be that much poorer.
Candidates can nominate themselves, or have their name put forward by another person, such as a family member or work colleague. It doesn't matter how the inspirational stories get to us, if they're worth telling.