STROUD’S environmental and community heroes will have a chance to shine in the town’s annual awards.

The awards, organised by Stroud Town Council, are an opportunity to praise those who go the extra mile to make the town a better place.

Anyone can nominate someone for an award.

There are four categories – community, environment, trade and young person of the year.

Groups or individuals can be nominated.

The environmental award is for action to enhance the environment or improve awareness of sustainability issues.

The trade award is open to people who work in any shop, cafe or restaurant in the town, not just the town centre.

The community award is for a group or individuals who have worked hard to improve community life.

Young people under the age of 25 can be nominated for the young person of the year award.

It can be for contribution to culture and the arts, sports, community life or the environment.

“Stroud is full of amazing unsung heroes who go out of their way to make our town such a strong and vibrant community,” said town mayor Amanda Moriarty.

“We are especially keen to hear about local young people who are getting involved in positive projects and doing something to change our town for the better.”

Cllr Moriarty said the nomination process had been changed to encourage more people to take part in the awards.

She said: “We’ve made it easier to nominate someone.

“All you need to do is include the person’s name and contact details and a few sentences about why they deserve an award.

“You can also nominate someone for more than one category.”

The winners will be announced at a special town meeting on Thursday, May 8 at 7.30pm at The Old Town Hall.

A nomination form can be picked up from the town council office in London Road, Stroud which is open Monday to Thursdays from 10am to 1.30pm and Fridays from 9.30am to 2.30pm. Forms can also be requested by calling 01453 762817 or are downloadable from the council’s website at stroudtown.gov.uk Nominations can also be made via email or without the form.

The deadline for nominations is Tuesday, April 22.

Among last year’s winners was Kelly Pitt of the Black Book Cafe who won the local enterprise award.