NOMINATIONS have opened for the 2009 Epping Forest citizen of the year competition.

The district council is looking for residents who have shown outstanding courage, or who have made great efforts to benefit the community.

Last year’s overall winner was Abridge resident John Filby who has spent 40 years serving his area through involvement with his local church, school and parish council.

This year’s award is open to anyone in the Epping Forest district except employees of Epping Forest District Council and current serving councillors.

The deadline for applications is November 27.

Nomination forms can be obtained from the council information desks at Epping, Loughton, or Waltham Abbey, or by contacting Pat Seager at the Civic Offices on 01992 564 427.