A Celebration for our Shining Lights

DO you know a remarkable person? Has someone lit up your life? The Evening Star and Suffolk County Council is today beginning a search for community heroes and heroines.

Whether they are a teacher, life-saver, carer or neighbour, we would like you to nominate them for the Stars of Suffolk Awards.

There are 12 categories, including Volunteer of the Year, Best Neighbour, Courageous Child, Sport Achievement and Outstanding Bravery.

And we will be highlighting their incredible stories over the next three months before selecting three finalists for each category.

These will be judged by an independent panel and the winners revealed at a multimedia gala evening of fun and entertainment on February 5.

Evening Star editor Nigel Pickover, said: “We are on a county-wide mission to find extraordinary people so we can honour their achievements and provide inspiration for others.

“We are now talking to sponsors who will deliver secret surprises to our winners in what will be a memorable, emotional evening for all concerned. Suffolk is a county fit for heroes and heroines and we will find them.

“There are many wonderful people in Suffolk so there will be many amazing and touching stories to be celebrated.

We urge everyone to nominate that special person in their lives.

Jeremy Pembroke, leader of Suffolk County Council is also looking forward to celebrating the best of Suffolk and he said: “Now is the chance to say thanks to these people.

He added: “I am delighted that these awards will give public recognition to the often unsung work that goes on in communities across the county.

“I know that every day people in our county go beyond the call of duty to make a difference. They don't ask for praise or encouragement - they just do it.

“The strength of community spirit gets us through the most challenging of times.

“Working in partnership with The Evening Star we will be recognising the wealth of dedication and commitment in the county.