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

Now in their twelfth 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.

Sean Taylor, CEO of the Redwood Technologies Group, said: "We are delighted to once again be involved in the organisation and sponsorship of such a fantastic local cause that recognises the outstanding contributions and efforts of so many talented and deserving people in the Bracknell area.

"Last year’s event was such a great success, and this year we are hoping to build on this and to get as many people involved as possible."

This year’s ten categories are:

  • The John Nike award, encompassing the former Pride of Bracknell (children’s champion) and Pride of Bracknell (adults’ champion) awards
  • School of the Year
  • Teacher of the Year
  • Business of the Year
  • Health and Sport (Young Person’s Achievement) and the Health and Sport (Adult Achievement)
  • Charity of the Year
  • Volunteer of the Year
  • Team of the Year - this 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 email your nomination in.

Email entries should include:

  • Your name
  • Your contact number
  • The name of your nominee 
  • Your nominee's contact details and address
  • And 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.

Nominations will be appearing on page two of the Bracknell News in the coming weeks, so keep your eyes peeled!

The closing date for nominations is Friday, April 7.