We're on the hunt for community heroes who help make Hyndburn a better place.

The Accrington Observer is sponsoring the Mayor of Hyndburn Awards 2011, which are aiming to reward all the people who work so hard for the local community.

We are asking readers to nominate their local heroes in seven categories – Volunteer of the year, Young Volunteer of the Year, Community Organisation of the Year, Environmental Project of the Year, Fundraiser of the Year, Sports and Recreation Project of the Year and The Mayor’s Special Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Mayor of Hyndburn, Coun Colette McCormack said: "These awards acknowledge outstanding people and organisations who, through their commitment to participating in unpaid community, voluntary and faith activities have made a massive impact on the lives of people in their communities.

"We have so many people who really are the backbone of our communities who give up their time and energy to make such a difference – and the Mayor of Hyndburn’s Awards will recognise them and the wonderful work they do.

"We want to know who are your magnificent seven, so please nominate them and show your appreciation."

The Mayor of Hyndburn’s Awards are a partnership between the council, the Accrington Observer and the Hyndburn Community Network.

Observer editor Gareth Tidman said: "Volunteers play a vital role in helping others and we want to find out about the ones closest to you so their efforts can be recognised.

"If you know anyone who selflessly gives their time to help others or who fits any of the criteria for the award categories then get your nominations in."

Peter Shaw, chairman of Hyndburn Community Network, said. "This is an ideal opportunity for us to showcase the work of hard-working individuals and their organisations.

"Many organisations have had recent funding cuts and this is a way to celebrate the key role voluntary, community and faith groups play in providing much-needed services in the borough and to reward volunteers."

Nomination forms will be available from the mayor’s office by calling 01254 388111. You can also pick up an entry form from the Hyndburn Community Network, Accrington Town Hall, Scaitcliffe House and the Accrington Observer district office in Unit 3 at Accrington Market Hall.

They are available online at www.hyndburncommunity

network.org.uk and from the council’s and Observer’s websites. They can be handed in to any of the above locations.

Closing date for entries is October 28 and entry forms can also be downloaded from the organisers’ websites. A shortlist of finalists will be drawn up at the end of October and those chosen will be invited to an awards evening at Accrington Town Hall at the end of November where the winners will be announced.