This is your chance to honour those who make our community what it is, with The Standard Community Heroes Awards.

The last two years have been a difficult time for everyone but despite this, people throughout our borough have done incredible things, to lift spirits, raise money, break records and care for those around them.

We want to give you the chance to tell us about the people in your area who have made a difference, however big or small it might be.

Already we've heard about a fitness coach who kept classes going throughout lockdown, a postman who goes the extra mile, a charity champion and some incredible volunteers.

We know that there are many more heroes to be uncovered, and we have plenty of categories to choose from, so if you know of someone that you think deserves this award then we want to hear from you.

Regional editor Susan Perry said: "The Standard Community Heroes Awards will recognise those people who have shown what this great community is made of.

"We can’t wait to hear more about the inspiring people of Chester and Ellesmere Port who have shown such bravery, compassion and leadership in the last two years.

"Please make sure you nominate anyone you think has gone above and beyond and helped us all get through these difficult times."

To nominate a person or organisation, send a brief citation saying what category you are nominating someone for, why you think they deserve the award, along with your name, address and phone number to news@chesterstandard.co.uk with ‘Standard Community Heroes 2021’ in the subject line.

All winners will receive a trophy and feature in our showcase Community Heroes supplement.

The 10 categories for Community Heroes Awards

  • Unsung Hero Award

Tell us about the person who makes a huge difference to our town’s communities, organisations or teams but who rarely gets a spot in the limelight.

  • Courage Award

Every week The Standard runs stories telling of the heroism, courage or bravery of people from this town.

But many others must go untold.

Nominees could have performed a dramatic rescue or maybe they’ve overcome illness or injury to record inspiring achievements.

  • Child of Courage Award

We are searching for nominees who have shown immense courage in the face of adversity.

Courage comes in different shapes – is it a child who has battled illness, performed an act of bravery or done something truly remarkable while up against the odds.

  • Young Community Star

Who are the unsung youngsters making a difference in our communities?

It could be a remarkable community volunteer, a member of a club that has gone the extra mile, someone who has showed true kindness or immense bravery that has made a difference.

  • Charity Champion

Charities local and nationally survive and thrive on the cash raised by big-hearted fundraisers.

And they have really needed it in tough times during 2020/21.

We don’t just want to hear who has raised the most, but how they have done it, what difference has it made and why it has inspired you.

  • Lockdown Award

Which person, team or organisation made an incredible difference to the people of Chester during the pandemic and resulting lockdowns?

Tell us about their outstanding contribution during these unprecedented times.

  • Young Sportsperson of the Year

Which Chester and Ellesmere Port sporting juniors have recorded the biggest achievement?

In a region with so much talent we would expect a deluge of entries.

Tell us who stands out? (Nominees must not have reached their 19th birthday by October 31.)

  • Family of the Year

Tell us about a family who has inspired you?

It might be the way they have faced adversity, or their campaigning efforts in the community.

  • Emergency Hero Award

Every day 999 crews perform incredible work; and 2020/21 has seen them face extraordinary challenges.

But whose work has gone above and beyond the call of duty?

Share their amazing stories with us.

  • Lifetime Achievement Award

This award recognises a person who has made the outstanding and lasting contribution to life in Chester.