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

The awards, organised by Stroud Town Council, recognise those people – young and old – who go the extra mile.

Groups or individuals can be nominated in the four categories: community, environment, trader and young person of the year.

Anyone can nominate the person they believe to be a hero in the community.

"All you need to do is include the person’s name and contact details and a few sentences about why they deserve an award," said Stroud Mayor Kevin Cranston.

“It’s a great chance to say thank you to the town’s amazing people who do so much to make our town such a great place.”

Young people under the age of 25 can be nominated for the Young Person of the Year award for their contribution to culture and the arts, sports, community life or the environment.

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 or run any shop, café, restaurant or other business in the parish of Stroud, not just the town centre.

The community award is for a group or individuals who have gone that extra mile to improve community life.

The winners will be announced at a special town meeting on Thursday, March 24 at 7.30pm at the Old Town Hall.

The Annual Town Meeting is open to Stroud residents and is a chance for people to find what has been happening in the town and to discuss town matters.

A nomination form can be picked up from the Town Council office in London Road, which is open Monday-Thursday 10am-1.30pm and Friday from 9.30am-12.30pm.

Forms can also be requested by phoning 01453 762817 or are downloadable from the council’s website. Nominations can also be made via email without the form.

The deadline for nominations is noon on Monday, March 14.