An appeal has been made for the people of Epping Forest to nominate their heroes and heroines from the district for countywide awards.

Nominations are now open for the 21st annual Pride of Essex awards, with categories including the Cornell Centre Child of Courage award for children who have overcome adversity, and the Essex Cares Unsung Hero Award which recognises and rewards exceptional care in the community.

Organiser Dave Dennison said there had been no nominations from Epping Forest in previous years and so he encouraged people to suggest worthy nominees.

He said: “We would encourage the people of Epping Forest to nominate anyone they think deserves this award, and we look forward to receiving some entries.”

Other categories include the Directa Ultimate award for adults who have overcome adversity or given up their time for others, and the SL Caravans Community Champion award which recognises outstanding community achievement and fundraising.

Nominations are open until November this year, when the winners will be announced at a ceremony in Chelmsford.

To nominate someone you know or for more information, visit the Pride of Essex website.