THE organisers of Wirral's Volunteer of the Year awards are urging more people to put pen to paper and nominate their local heroes.

So far, more than 50 people have been nominated for the award, now in its 16th year, which salutes those whose voluntary work often goes un-noticed.

Organised by Volunteering Wirral, the accolade is for those whose voluntary work often goes unnoticed.

The entry deadline is Thursday, June 30.

So if you know someone who has gone the extra mile to make a difference in their local community nominate them.

The recipients of this year's awards will be unveiled during a special presentation evening at the Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre in New Brighton on August 11.

There are six categories, from which the overall Wirral Volunteer of the Year will be chosen.

They are 1: The Elm Award for unwaged volunteers aged 21-65, 2: The Aspen Award for employed volunteers (for volunteering in their own time) 3: The Willow Award for a younger person (aged 21 and under) 4: The Oak Award for an older person (over 65) and 5: The Poplar Award for a disabled person

Steve Mowbray, manager of Volunteering Wirral, said: "Volunteering is the heartbeat of communities here In Wirral. "We've had a very encouraging response this year. There's still plenty of time to nominate that special person.

"Wirral residents continue make a positive contribution through volunteering everyday, every week every year, come rain or shine.

"Volunteering is ingrained in the fabric of this magnificent area.

"This year's award is designed to recognise the contributions made by these individuals. If you know anyone who deserves recognition, I urge you to nominate them."

Nomination forms are from www.volunteeringwirral.co.uk (see related links section below this article), your local library, or the Wirral Globe’s office in Haymarket Court, Hinson Street, Birkenhead.