COMMUNITY heroes who make a difference where they live will be recognised in a new award scheme being run by every local BBC radio station in England - but they need your help to identify people who should be honoured.

It’s part of the BBC’s ‘Make A Difference’ awards to recognise remarkable people; marking their achievements and contributions to lives in their communities.

‘Make A Difference’ was first set up at the start of the first pandemic lockdown and is a virtual notice board for those offering help and those needing support. To date, over eight million people have interacted across all 39 local BBC radio stations.

Categories cover the unsung heroes of every community from great neighbours, inspirational teachers, awesome volunteers or even outstanding key workers.

Chris Burns, head of audio and digital for BBC England said: “The last two years have been challenging for everyone.

“Listeners have contacted us to share the stories of how people have helped each other and we wanted to find a way of celebrating those unsung heroes and telling those amazing stories.”

For a full list of categories - and details of how to nominate someone - go to bbc.co.uk/makeadifference.

Nominations are now open and will close on April 29 at 11pm.