THE countdown to the annual awards recognising high achievers and unsung heroes across Bracknell Forest has begun.

Now in their eleventh year, the Pride of Bracknell Forest awards are back and once again promise to showcase the very best and brightest people in the borough, from teachers and volunteers to teams, charities and businesses.

Last year’s finalists were showered with praise at a glittering black-tie awards ceremony and this year we want to see even more people nominated for their impressive achievements and good deeds.

If you know someone who goes above and beyond the call of duty, or has excelled in their field, then nominate them to be in with a chance of receiving a coveted Pride of Bracknell Forest award.

Organised in partnership with Redwood Technologies, Waitrose and Bracknell and Wokingham College, the Bracknell News is continuing to throw its support behind the fantastic cause. 

Alex Drury, a reporter at the Bracknell News and supporter of the awards, said: “It’s a really exciting opportunity to recognise all the good people in Bracknell Forest, especially now the borough is growing at such a fast pace.

"It’s a chance for the community to rally together and celebrate their worthy actions. I’m looking forward to the evening, I hope to see you there too.

“We need you to tell us who the most deserving people are, so pick up your pen and get nominating folks!”

This year’s ten categories are: Pride of Bracknell (children’s champion); Pride of Bracknell (adults’ champion); School of the Year; Teacher of the Year; Business of the Year; Health and Sport (Young Person’s Achievement); Health and Sport (Adult Achievement); Charity of the Year; Volunteer of the Year and, new for 2016, Team of the Year. The new category for teams can be any type of team or group of people who come together for the same cause, whether they be linked to sports, a company, a charity, a school or church.

To nominate a community hero, team, school or business you think deserves some recognition for their outstanding contribution to Bracknell Forest either fill out a nomination form - found on page two of the Bracknell News out now - or email it in. 

Email entries should include: 

- Your name

- Your contact number

- The name of your nominee

- Your nominee's contact details and address

- A brief description of why your nominee should be awarded

Email your entry to news@bracknellnews.co.uk

Postal entries should be addressed to Pride of Bracknell Forest, Bowman House, 2-10 Bridge Street, Reading RG1 2LU.

The closing date for nominations is Wednesday, March 23.